The state records of North Carolina

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GENEALOGY
975.6
N81S
V.15

GENEALOGY COLLECTION

3 1833 01797 3329

THE

STATE RECORDS

NORTH CAROLINA.

PUBLISHED UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE TRUS-
TEES OF THE PUBLIC LIBRARIES, BY ORDER
OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

COLLECTED AND EDITED

BY

WALTER CLARK,

ONE OF THE JUSTICES OF THE SUPREME COURT OF N. C.

VOL. XV-1780-81.

goldsboro :
Nash Bros., Book and Job Printu

PKEFATORY NOTES.

1136001

In June, 1780, before Gen. Clinton departed from Charleston for
New York, a plan of operations for the subjugation of North Caro-
lina was agreed on between him and Cornwallis.

After South Carolina had been made secure and civil government
re-established there, Cornwallis was to advance into North Carolina
and Gen. Leslie was to invade Virginia, thus threatening North
Carolina from that direction while engaging the Virginia forces and
preventing any re-inforcements being sent to Gen. Gates. Corn-
wallis proceeded leisurely in carrying out his part of that pro-
gramme. He thoroughly beat down all opposition to the Royal
authority in South Carolina, placed strong garrisons at important
points in the interior, divided the inhabitants, according to age and
circumstances, into two classes of loyal militia, and organized partizan
corps that became well disciplined and very effective. But aside
from the additional strength derived from these bodies of Loyalists,
he had strong regiments of British regulars, which he felt confident
would be able to withstand any force that could be brought against
them. Besides, he had many assurances that a large part of the
population of North Carolina were well affected towards the Crown
and were ready not only to provide supplies, but to rally to his
standard. Yet out of abundant caution, before entering upon the
conquest of North Carolina, he deemed it safer to provide against
contingencies, and so it was arranged for Gen. Leslie to make a
lodgement in Virginia, occupy Petersburg where there was a con-
siderable store of military supplies and make incursions towards
North Carolina.

The crops in North Carolina that summer were exceptionally
fine, and were particularly abundant at the West, and Cornwallis
urged the Tories to remain quiet at their homes, house their crops
and be in readiness to join him on his approach in the autumn.
Such excursions as were made along the border brought him satis-
factory accounts of strong support when the hour for action should
arrive.

Indeed, Gen. Caswell writing to Gov. Nash from his camp near

PREFATORY NOTES.

the South Carolina line, on July 31st, 1780, portrayed the situation
in ominous colors. "There are very few inhabitants of Anson, "wrote
Gen. Caswell, " who have not taken the oath of allegiance to the
King of Great Britain. Most of these," he, however, added "are will-
ing to break it and take up arms against him, saying that they were
compelled by the British, but come in voluntarily to us. Such as
are desirous of supporting the British Government are either fled
with the British or lie out of it." At best the outlook in that sec-
tion was not hopeful, nor was Anson without company. After the
occupation of Charlotte by Cornwallis, Gov. Nash himself wrote —
"should Gen. Davidson, who proposed to make a stand in the
North side of the Yadkin, be unfortunate in the attempt, it would
have a very unhappy effect on our affairs, for the country below the
Yadkin to within twenty miles of Hillsboro is chiefly disaffected
and has been so from the beginning of the war." And, indeed,
similar conditions of disaffection prevailed in some other parts of
the State, while no section was entirely free from it. Yet after the
dispersal of Gates' army on August 10th, at Camden, Cornwallis
was bitterly disappointed that there were no greater risings among
the inhabitants. On the morning of the 17th he dispatched " proper
persons" into North Carolina with directions to the Loyalists to
take up arms, and assemble immediately and to seize the most vio-
lent of their adversaries and all military stores and to intercept all
stragglers from Gates' army ; and he promised to march without
delay to their support. But he i-eceived only cold comfort. He
wrote in confidence to Gen. Clinton telling of his appointment,
saying that no Loyalist had given him intelligence of Gates' army :
that they did not rise and assert themselves after his victory, and
he commented as the fact that they had allowed Gates to pass on to
Hillsboro with a guard of only six men.

His experience with the South Carolinians was equally dis-
appointing. Indeed, a month later, he reported officially to Eng-
land that the disloyalty in the country East of the Santee was so
great that the account of his victory could not penetrate into it, any
person daring to speak of it being threatened with instant death.
Camden being more than 75 miles South of Charlotte in the-direct
line to Charleston, the Catawba river running almost North and
South on the West of the route, Gen. Sumpter now began to oper-

PREFATORY NOTES.

ate on the West of the Catawba while Gen. Marion penetrated into
the Southeastern counties and interrupted Cornwallis' communica-
tion with Charleston. With a large number of prisoners, with
many wounded men, and his force of Regulars much weakened by
disease, and the patriot bands enterprising and troublesome, Corn-
wallis found himself unable to reap the best fruits of his victory.
He sent his prisoners to Charleston in squads of 150 under charge
of a strong guard ; and on the 26th of August, Marion came up
with one of these detachments, captured the guard and liberated
the prisoners. And his operations were so important that Corn-
wallis had to send a Regiment to Georgetown to retake it from the
patriotic militia who had captured it, and to preserve British au-
thority there. These and other causes delayed his forward march
for a month — a fortunate respite for the North Carolina authorities.

In the meanwhile the British emissaries in North Carolina had
not been entirely unsuccessful. Bands of Tories embodied in Bladen
and in Anson ; but in Bladen, Col. Brown, after two stout engage-
ments, succeeded in subduing them, notwithstanding Cornwallis
detached 400 men to invade that county ; while in Anson Col. Abel
Kolb, with a hundred resolute minute men, zealously watched over
the Patriot cause and rendered such signal service in dispersing the
Loyalists whenever they assembled as to receive the particular
thanks of Gen. Gates, the Commander-in-Chief.

The Tories also became active in Cumberland, Chatham, Ran-
dolph and Guilford ; and especially in Surry did they make such
headway that Col. Armstrong could subdue them only after a sharp
engagement.

The discomfiture of Gates' army at Camden was complete. The
retreat of the shattered organizations became a rout. The militia
largely threw away their guns and on reaching North Carolina dis-
persed to their homes. The Virginia militia, several hundred
strong, reached Guilford Court House, but so many kept on their
homeward way, that somewhat later Gen. Stevens could muster only
one hundred of them.

The Maryland Continentals and Dixon's Regiment of North Car-
olina militia were however conspicious for their fine conduct. The
British having penetrated to their rear, they charged through the
serried ranks of the enemy and made good their retreat, and when

PREFATORY NOTES.

a squadron of horse came in pursuit, they faced about and fought
so desperately that only two of the British horsemen escaped. Gen.
Gates and Gen. Caswell hastened without stopping to Hillsboro,
where the former at once set about drawing re-inforcements and
military stores from Virginia, and began to organize a new army.
Gen. Smallwood, on reaching Charlotte, directed Col. Davie and a
few minute men he had with him to move down the river and
watch Cornwallis, while urgent calls were made for the militia to
assemble and protect their country. Smallwood himself continued
with the sick and wounded to Salisbury where he established a
camp. Such ammunition and stores as had not been carried for-
ward remained at Mack's Ferry low down on the Yadkin river, and
these were speedily removed to Salisbury.

The care of the country from Anson to the Sea-coast had been
committed to Gen. H. W. Harrington, who, with several companies
of militia from Duplin, Onslow, Bladen and Cumberland and sev-
eral from Albemarle counties, in all, making a force of 450 men,
kept up a vigilant watch and guarded the stores at Fayetteville. In
his front, Marion acted toward the coast, Col. Kolb over in Anson ;
and down on the Pee Dee the brave and energetic Col. James
Kenan, of Duplin, witli a squadron of horse, kept faithful guard.

Gov. Nash had called the General Assembly together to meet at
Hillsboro the 12th of August, but a quorum of the members had
not reached there on the 23rd ; when time being precious, the mem-
bers present recommended to the Governor to call out one-half of
the militia of the State and to direct the commanding officers to
appoint commissioners to provide by purchase or impressment the
necessary supplies.

Accordingly the militia was directed to assemble at Hillsboro,
Salisbury and Charlotte.

Gen. Caswell, having dispatched messengers to intercept the mi-
litia regiments of Col. Jarvis, Col. Seawell and Col. Exum and to
direct them to Ramsay's Mills in Chatham county, on the 26th of
August left Hillsboro for Kinston, but a few days later he was in
camp with this brigade, whose strength was something over 800
men. Gov. Nash, however, assigned Gen. Sumner to that com-
mand ; and on the 3rd of September Sumner and Caswell proceeded

PREFATORY NOTES.

with it by way of Pittsboro to Salisbury where they arrived a fort-
night later.

When the Assembly met, it addressed itself with vigor to the
work before it. Responding to the recommendation of the Gover-
nor, it levied a tax in kind to be at once collected out of the abun-
dant harvest. Notwithstanding Gen. Harrington had been ap-
pointed Brigadier General of the Salisbury District, pro tempore, in
Rutherford's absence, the Assembly now elected Lieut. Col. Wm.
Davidson of the Continentals to that position, and it appointed
Gen. Smallwood Major-General and Commander-in-Chief of the
militia, giving him precedence over all the officers in the State ex-
cept alone Gen. Gates.

These appointments were the cause of some irritation. Upon
learning that Col. Davidson had been appointed to the Brigadier's
place that he held, Gen. Harrington promptly tendered his resigna-
tion, but he still continued to hold and act under his commission
as Brigadier and rendered efficient service in the Southeastern
border.

Gen. Caswell was not so complacent. In October he wrote to
Gov. Nash, reminding him that in the Spring he had not only
" been appointed Major-General in command of the militia, but as
well a member of the Board to conduct trade in behalf of the
State ; and that at the late session the Assembly had been pleased
to dismiss him from the command of the militia, and it is probable
would have dismissed him from the Board of Trade had it occur-
red to them that he had been appointed a member of that Board,"
and so he tendered his resignation of the latter position.

Nor did the Governor fare better. He had reported to the Assem-
bly that his Council did not attend and gave him no aid, and he
urged that other appointments should be made, and he also recom-
mended that a Board of War should be created who would share
with him the responsibility of conducting military matters when
the Assembly was not in session. Accordingly the Assembly cre-
ated a Board of War composed of Col. Alexander Martin, John
Penn and Oroondates Davis ; and this Board began its sessions
September 12th. Its powers were so great as to be in derogation of
the rights of the Governor, and during much of the time John Penn
acted alone as the Board and controlled the military operations of

PREFATORY NOTES.

the State. Gov. Nash was greatly incensed at this turn of affairs
and at the next session of the Assembly he protested that the Leg-
islature had no right to subvent the Constitution of the State in that
manner ; that it had deprived him of his rightful powers and left
him with but an empty title, neither serviceable to the people nor
honorable to himself, and that he would resign his office unless re-
stored to his lawful functions. The Board of War ceased to exist
on the 31st January, 1781, but Nash was not re-elected Governor.

Trade between our ports and the West Indies seems never to
have been entirely arrested, and many valuable cargoes weir im-
ported ; nor did the practice cease of sending out armed private
vessels to prey on British commerce and make prizes of British mer-
chantmen. It so happened that several vessels came in just
about the time Gates" lost his stores with cargoes tending to
supply those losses. In particular, on September 4th, there arrived
in the Cape Fear two prizes made by the Privateer, Gen. Nash, one
cargo being invoiced at 10,000 pounds sterling and the other at
40,000 pounds ; the latter indeed being one of the most valuable
captures made during the war and having on board nearly every-
thing desired by the soldiers. About the same time the Mar-
quis of Bretigny also reached New Berne bringing a quantity of
powder and 400 stand of arms, with pistols, saddles and accoutre-
ments ; while Dr. Guion's schooner likewise brought in needed sup-
plies.

In fact the enterprise displayed by the merchants and gentlemen
at our ports was no less remunerative to them than beneficial to the
State. It was also troublesome to the enemy. Gov. Nash in De-
cember mentioned in a letter to Gen. Washington : " The enemy
have not been entirely free of trouble off Charleston and on the
coast in that quarter during this summer ; they have suffered very
considerably by our privateers, particularly by open row boats.
These boats, with 40 or 50 men aboard, take almost everything
that comes in their way. Two that went out in company returned
here this week, after a leave of about 20 days, in which time they
took and sent in 12 valuable prizes, besides burning, I think, 4."

As speedily as possible after the battle of Camden, Cornwallis dis-
patched Tarleton to cut off Sumpter whose corps was unfortunately
surprised by that energetic leader and totally routed, and scouring

PREFATORY NOTES.

parties were sent out to take Marion, who, however, eluded all ef-
forts to capture him, and continued to harrass and annoy the Brit-
ish incessantly. Expecting to advance, Cornwallis allowed Fer-
guson, with his partisan corps of 1,200 Loyalists, to march into
Western North Carolina, to collect forage, suppress any outbreaks
there and afford the Tories an opportunity to join him. Ferguson
soon reached Gilberttown some thirty miles distant from the South
Carolina line, and a part of his command even penetrated to Mor-
ganton.

Gen. Davidson had established his camp ten miles South of Char-
lotte and twenty miles from the Waxhaws where Cornwallis lay,
and there on the 24th of September Sumner joined him, while Col.
Locke was raising the militia and the minute men were active and
vigilant. At length Cornwallis, being ready, broke camp and
moved forward, his advance entering Charlotte on the 26th of Se]>-
tember, his purpose being to establish a strong post there, and then
being joined by the Loyal militia to proceed to Salisbury and Hills-
boro and re-establish British government, Gov. Josiah Martin ac-
companying the army, ready to resume the administration.

Sumner them fell back to McGoin's Creek, leaving Gen. David-
son and Col. Davie with his mounted minute men in the immedi-
ate front of the enemy.

Gov. Nash was emphatic in his directions that any tiling like a
general engagement was to be avoided, for a second defeat at that
time would have had a most disastrous effect on the inhabitants
and upon the spirit of the militia who had now rallied from the de-
pression caused by Gates' defeat.

Early in October Gen. Butler's brigade, Tot) strong, was about to
make a junction with Sumner, who was East of the Yadkin and 18
miles from Salisbury. Gen. Jones, with the Halifax Brigade, had
been ordered to join Harrington, but now was marching with all haste
to Sumner's camp. Col. William Washington, with 101) troopers,
was en route from Halifax and other partizan bands were concen-
trating at Salisbury. Gen. Smallwood had accepted the appoint-
ment of Major-General of the militia and was now en route from
Hillsboro to the front, escorted by Col. Morgan and 300 Regulars.
Gates was still at Hillsboro where 1,000 Continentals were still in
camp, either without shoes or without arms, waiting on the slow
Virginia authorities.

PREFATORY NOTES.

On the other hand, Cornwallis, while not pressing forward to the
East, threw a column to the Westward to connect with Ferguson or
to prevent the juncture of the several bodies of militia that were
marching against him.

In these trying days, Davidson and Davie bore themselves as
heroes, worthy of immortal fame. Their courage, activity and zeal
inspired the surrounding country, fixed all waverers on the patriotic
side and suppressed all disaffection, while their vigilant and daring
minute men drove in Cornwallis' foraging parties and hemmed his
men within their camp, and struck hard blows whenever opportun-
ity offered.

On October 7th, Col. Davie's horse, had increased to 400,
while Gen. Davidson, who took post thirteen miles to the North-
east of Charlotte, had five hundred more under his immediate com-
mand. Cornwallis had expected much from the loyal people —
much in the way of supplies and additions to his forces. But he
reckoned without his host. A letter from Charlotte, written about
that time, says : " His Lordship took post at Charlotte with much
pomp. Proclamations were issued : peace and protection were of-
fered to all returning and penitent rebels, and death, with all its
horrors, threatened to the obstinate and impenitent.

Gov. Martin, with great solemnit}', assumed the Government and
conceived himself reinstated.

The people generally abandoned their habitations ; some fled, de-
termined to dispute every foot of ground, and some assembled in
their respective neighborhoods, determined to harrass the enemy's
foraging parties.

His Lordship soon discovered that he was in the enemy's country,
without provisions, without intelligence, without a single humble
servant, except Peter Johnson and McCafferty, who at last de-
serted him in the night and came to make peace with us."

Such was the situation while Cornwallis waited at Charlotte for
the return of Ferguson from his foraging expedition into Western
Carolina.

On Ferguson's advance into North Carolina runners were dis-
patched across the mountains and into Virginia, as well as the
neighboring North Carolina counties, and the people gallantly rose
to meet him. The official account of these proceedings, signed by
Cols. Campbell, Shelby and Cleveland, states : " On receiving intel-

PREFATORY NOTES.

ligence that Maj. Ferguson had advanced as high up as Gilbert-
town, in Rutherford county, and threatened to cross the mountains
to the Western waters, Col. William Campbell, with 400 men from
Washington county, Virginia, and Col. Isaac Shelby, with 240 men
from Sullivan county, North Carolina, and Lieut. Col. John Lewis,
with 240 men of Washington county, North Carolina, assembled at
Watauga, on the 25th of September, where they were joined by
Col. Charles McDowell, with 160 men from the counties of Burke
and Rutherford, who had fled before the enemy to the Western
waters.

We began our march on the 26th, and on the 30th we were
joined by Col. Cleveland on the Catawba River with 350 men from
the counties of Wilkes and Surry. No one officer having properly
the right to command in chief, on the 1st of October we dispatched
an express to Maj. Gen. Gates informing him of our situation and
requesting him to send a general officer to take command of the
whole. In the meantime Col. Campbell was chosen to act as Com-
mandant till such general officer should arrive. We marched to
the Cowpens on Broad River in South Carolina, where we were
joined by Col. James Williams, with 400 men, on the evening of
the 6th of October, who informed us that the enemy had encamped
somewhere near the Cherokee Ford of Broad River, about 30 miles
distant from us.

By a council of the principal officers it was then thought advis-
able to pursue the enemy that night with 900 of the best horsemen
and leave the weak horsemen and the foot men to follow as fast as
possible. We began our march with 900 of the men, about 8
o'clock the same evening, and marching all night came up with the
enemy about 3 o'clock p. m. on the 7th, who lay encamped on the
top of King's Mountain, 12 miles North of Cherokee Ford, in the
confidence that they could not be forced from so advantageous a
port."

The column approached to within a quarter of a mile of the en-
emy before it was discovered. In five minutes the engagement be-
came general and the battle was won in an hour and seven minutes.

Maj. Ferguson, together with 157 of his command were killed,
and 153 so badly wounded that they could not be removed from
the field according to the British returns. The first reports of Brit-
ish loss made by the conquerors were not unnaturally exaggerated

PREFATORY NOTES.

and can not be followed. Ferguson had with him 100 regulars, of
whom only about one-half survived. He had also about 1,000 of
his partisan corps (Loyalists). Over 700 were made prisoners. The loss
among the officers were particularly heavy. The loss of the patriot
force was 28 killed, among them Col. Williams, and 62 wounded.

It was night before the prisoners were all secured, and the victors
slept in the battle-field, but early the next morning set off North-
ward with their prisoners under the command of Col. Campbell.
Within two months, however, all but 130 of them had been dis-
missed, paroled or had been enlisted in the military service for
three months, and Gen. Greene was disappointed in not being
able to use them by way of exchange to set free prisoners held by
the British.

This important victory was one of the turning points of the war.
Not only in its direct efforts but in its influences it was of the first
magnitude. First, it showed the capacity of untrained militia to
fight stubborn battles and win victories, and it animated the pa-
triots to renewed zeal, while depressing those who were disposed to
favor the crown. After that the Tories in that region were content to
profess their good will to the King and practiced remaining at home.

The destruction of an entire corps of 1,100 men, and the loss of
so many experienced, crippled Cornwallis' army and entirely un-
settled his plans.

By the 10th the news had reached Sumner at camp Yadkin, and
on the morning of the 12th Gates at Hillsboro transmitted the in-
telligence to Congress. He wrote to Jefferson, then Governor of
Virginia : " This instant I received the great and glorious news
contained in the enclosed letter from Brigadier Gen. Davidson to
Gen. Sumner, who directly dispatched it to me by express. We
are now more than even with the enemy. The moment the sup-
plies for the troops arrive from Taylor's Ferry, I shall proceed with
the whole to the Yadkin.

Gen. Smallwood and Col. Morgan are on their way to that part
The latter, with the Light Infantry, was yesterday advanced eigh-
teen miles beyond Guilford Court House ; the former, with the
Cavalry, lay last night thirteen miles on this side of that place."

Cornwallis was so hemmed in Charlotte as to have received no
information of the battle of King's Mountain for a considerable
time. Indeed he was in utter ignorance of what was passing in

PREFATORY NOTES.

South Carolina. For near three weeks he received no intelligence
from Camden, every express for him having been taken by the ac-
tive partisan bands in his rear.

On learning of the loss of Ferguson's corps, he apprehended that
Ninety-Six would be at once attacked and taken, and being without
supplies, determined to fall back. So on the evening of the 12th
he left Charlotte and on the 21st of October he re-crossed the
Catawba and went into camp near the Waxhaws. Here he first
learned that Gen. Leslie had pursuant to the prearranged plan made
a descent on the Chesapeake, and in the month of October had
made incursions through the lower counties of Virginia, penetrat-
ing down the Black water to the South Quay near the N. C. line,
and nearer the Coast to Great Bridge over the North West. In
that quarter Gen. Gregory commanded, and he gallantly took the
field with his militia, but fortunately no general engagement occur-
red. As these operations were of no advantage to Cornwallis, on
hearing of them, he had once suggested to Gen. Leslie to change
his base to the Cape Fear ; but instead, Gen. Leslie, after occupying
lower Virginia for a month, returned to New York.

As Cornwallis withdrew into South Carolina, the patriot forces
followed in the same direction.

About the middle of November Gen. Smallwood was about 15
miles below Charlotte awaiting the arrival of Gen. Gates with 1 ,000
Regulars composed of the Maryland and Delaware regiments and
of Buford's Virginia corps.

Gen. Stevens was still at Hillsboro with 500 Virginia troops, al-
most naked and unarmed. Gen. Gates had then set out for the
front to take command in person ; but the arrival of Gen. Greene,
who had been appointed to succeed him, was daily expected.

The practice in calling out the militia had been to designate the
number to be called out from the several counties embraced in the
order, and these men were to serve sixty or ninety days as the cir-
cumstances seemed to require. The result was that the militia force
was constantly being changed, the time for which the men were to
serve was continually expiring, and the efficiency of the army was
disastrously effected. No reliance could be placed on the number
of men who would be available at any particular time in the future,
and the organization of a regular force was indispensable in view

PREFATORY NOTES.

of the probable movements of Cornwallis who appeared to be pre-
paring for a return into North Carolina.

In this situation it was hoped that an exchange of prisoners
might be affected that would liberate hundreds of our veterans that
had been taken at Charleston and Camden and set free from their
parole the militia Mho had been allowed to return to their homes
under a pledge to remain inactive until exchanged.

But notwithstanding the orders of Gen. Gates that the prisoners
taken at King's Mountain should be carried to Fincastle, Va., it
appears that Col. Martin Armstrong frustrated that design and set
at liberty some 500 of these prisoners, much to the disappointment
of Gen. Greene and the Board of War. Indeed, the pressure on
the British to feed the prisoners in their hands was so annoying
that they would probably have been glad to make some exchange.
Lord Germain, writing to Cornwallis on the subject of relieving the
public of the enormous expense of sustaining these prisoners, said :
" What appears to me the most practicable measures for these pur-
poses are the inducing the prisoners to enter on board the ships of
war or Privateers, or to go as recruits to the regiments in the West
Indies, or as volunteers to serve upon the expedition against the
Spanish settlements from Jamaica ; and your Lordship will, there-
fore, take the proper steps for dispersing as many of them as pos-
sible in these several ways, or in such other ways as may occur to
you as more practicable and effectual."

Conformably to these directions a considerable number of the
prisoners at Charleston were sent to the West Indies and were in a
measure forced by the British into their service. How many North
Carolinians shared that unhappy fate we have no means of deter-
mining.

Representations having been made to Congress that it was desir-
able to substitute another General Officer for Gates as Commander
of the Southern Department, Gen. Washington appointed Gen.
Greene to that command, and on December 2nd Gen. Greene ar-
rived in camp at Charlotte and assumed command.

C ^L&<K2t-

THE STATE KECOEDS

OF

NORTH CAROLINA.

1780.

GOV. ABNER NASH TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

[North Carolina State Papers, No. 72. p., 89.]

Newbekn, July 18th, 1780.
Sir :

I made not the least doubt that our delegates had acquainted
Congress of the steps taken by our Assembly for furnishing their
quota of the Continental Tax : every transaction relative to this
business is anteriour to my appointment to the government of this
State, and I did not conceive it necessary to trouble you, Sir, with
accounts which I supposed you had received before, either from
our late Governor or the Delegates of the State. Every Congress
draft that has yet come to hand has been duly paid, and, indeed,
I have advanced ' in cash 1,250,000 dollars to your Commis-
sary on the Cr. of the United States, he engaging to obtain and
furnish Bills for the amount. Iain obliged yet to advance him
farther sums or let the Army suffer.

I am to acqt. you that your resolves, tho' dated in February,
never came to my hands till the 1.3th May, which unfortunately
happened a few days after the rising of the Genl. Assembly. Of
course nothing effectual could be done on that head, and I beg
leave to observe that it is much to lie lamented that this measure,
if deemed necessary for the subsistence of the Army, had no) been
adopted last winter, and the respective States immediately made
acquainted therewith. The provision called for might then" have
been collected against the opening of the campaign and on reason.
able terms. However, Sir, I have called a meeting of the Gen-
eral Assembly for the express purpose of taking under eonsidera-
15—1

STATE RECORDS.

tion your letters and the resolves of Congress which accompany
them. In answer to that part of your letter in which you desire
to he acqiiainted with the powers lodged with the Executive of
this State, I am to inform you that the Governor & Council are
impowered to draw out 8,000 men of the militia of this State to
relieve that number now employed in the field ; and they are also
impowered to strike money, if absolutely necessary, on the Or. of
this State, for defraying the Militia expenses. By this you per-
ceive, Sir, we have had more of our militia out on duty than was
required by the Acts of Congress. Very little progress has been
made for recruiting in the regular service, tho' the reward offered
by the State was very great. Of this, however, I presume your
Genl. will be able to give you a better account than I can, as they
are supposed by ye orders of Congress to he sent to him as fast as
they are recruited ; & your Genl., I presume, can also give you
more satisfactory accot. of the operations of the armies than I can.
I shall, nevertheless, from time to time acquaint Congress with
every material occurrence that happens in this State or So. Caro-
lina, & shall be happy to do this in the way most agreeable to
you, either by holding a reciprocal correspondence with you or
with our delegates in Congress. And, Sir, I shall hope for the honor
of being made acquainted with such matters of Genl. importance as
concerns the United States. In your last favour you allude, as I
conceive, to an expectation of aid from France ; but as I never had
any previous intelligence on this head, could not determine how
much confidence to place in it. A report also prevails that Genl.
Gates is appointed to command in the Southern department, but
you make no mention of any such measure in any of your letters ;
of course I should not suppose the report well founded. By the
last returns I had from the Baron De Kalb, his army amounted
to upwards of 11,300 men, besides 4,000 militia that are now
marching to ieinforce him; and as the immediate burthen of sub-
sisting this army falls upon N. Carolina, I hope Congress will
think we are doing our utmost, both as to men and money, for
the common Interest of the Union.

I have had late intelligence from Pee Dee. Majr. McArthur is
posted there near Cheraw Hill, with about 500 Regulars & about
1,600 Militia. Their outposts in that neighborhood have lately
been called in, & Lord Cornwallis has returned from Charles

STATE RECORDS.

Town to Cambden. The crops in that Country are immense, &the
Mills are constantly at work for the use of the Enemy. The Baron
wiites me that he understands Genl. Gates is coming to take his
command, & that he shall be happy to be relieved. I expect his
Army will remain at their present post (Conrad Dowd's) on Deep
River until the General arrives. General Caswell, with a pretty
large detachment of the Militia, is, I expect, by this time at Cole's
Bridge, on Drowning Creek, about 25 Miles from Pee Dee. He
writes that if he can accomplish a junction with General Ruther-
ford and the Western Militia under him, he will march on and
take post on the hither side of Pee Dee ; this would be of the
utmost consequence, as we should then be in the way of consum-
ing what may at present *be called the Enemy's stores. But,
important as the object is, I have advised him not to get beyond
supporting distance from the Regular Army, unless from intelli-
gence he has a very great certainty of succeeding in his enterprise.
I hope, Sir, Our Assembly, at their next Session, will answer the
fullest expectations of Congress. I shall not fail to urge them to
the execution of every measure recommended by your Honourable
body, and will advise you minutely of their actn.
AVith the highest respect,

I have the Honour to be, Sir,

Your Excellency's Most Obdt. Servant,

A. KASH.
Excuse the direction ; 'twas copied by My Secretary from the
direction of Yours to me, where 'tis to the office & not to the
man.
Add/essed, His Excellency, The Pres't of Congress, Philadelphia.

GENL. HORATIO GATES TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

[Letters Genl. Gates, 154, Vol. 2, p. 218. |

Hillsboeo, 19th July, 1780.

The Deplorable State of the Commissary and Quarter Master's

Departments, and the intire Deficiency of Magazines to Supply

the Southern Army, Oblige me to Request General Huger to be

the Bearer of this Letter; His zeal for the public Service antici-

STATE RECORDS.

pates niy wish that he would be my Advocate with your Excel-
lency, & the Executive Power of this State .to Supply our Wants
by immediately establishing Magazines of Provisions and Forage,
and properly Organizing, the Q. M. General's Department;
unless these things are done, an Army is like a Dead Whale upon
the Sea Shore, a Monstrous Carcase without life or Motion; to
be particular in representing the Exact State of the Two Depart-
ments, & how much each wants of its due Supplies, would Fill a
Volume. General Huger has seen and known them all ; To Him
I beg leave to refer your Excellency & The Cauncil for more
Minute information ; Can I hope that Our Distress would move
you to come for some short Time to Hillsborough, your appearance
may Opeiate advantageously upon the" Spirits of the Militia, as
well as be immediately necessary in establishing a System of
Supplies. With proper Exertions I have no doubt The Enemy
might be confined to Charles Town, & Finally Expelled from
thence; but on the Contrary, should inactivity or Neglect Con-
tinue, Their hateful Influence must be Fatal to the Army & Ruin,
ous to the Southern States. Before I Finish my Letter I must
request your Excellency will use your Utmost Endeavours to Sup-
ply 700 Tents for the Militia of your State; Virginia has promised
instantly t<> forward a proper Number for her Troops; the indis-
pensable necessity for this Article is too Striking to need any
reasoning to enforce it. I have received no Answer to the Letter
I had The Honour to write your Excellency from Richmond. Genl.
Huger takes with Him the Demand I have upon your Excel'cy
from Congress, as well as that upon Virginia. I wish the circum-
stances of your Treasury may be such as to Enable you to Answer
Both. The General will acquaint your Excellency with the Rea-
sons I was not paid the Draught upon the Treasury of Virginia.

With Sentiments of the Highest Esteem & Regard,
I am, Sir,

Yr. Excellency's most obedient Humble Servant,

HORATIO GATES.
His Excellency Governor Nash.
( Endorsed : )

Copy of a Letter from Genl. Gates to His Excellency, Gover-
nor Nash, Dated Hillsborough, 19th July, 1780.

STATE RECORDS.

ESTIMATE BY COMM'Y JOSEPH GREEN OF REQUIREMENTS OF
THE COM'T DEPARTMENT, VIZ:

10,000 Rations Beef is 15,000 ft>s @ 20 pen _15,000

10,000....Do flour is.....'...10,000 30 sh 15,000

10,000._..Do_ Rum 10,000 gills, 40 " 20,000

Sugar, Tea, Coffee, wine, &c, for Hospi-
tals _ _ 1,000

10 PCt. loss in Issuing on the above 5,000

.-,C. I I Ml

Money to lay in 90 days, rations at above rates, 5,049,000

That I be at liberty to raise four Companies Light horse, to con-
sist of twenty-five men Each,^ Officered with one Capt. & one
Lieutenant. To be entitled to the same pay & Rations, and To
Serve the same term -of time & be under the same rules & Regu-
lations as the Militia Light Horse in this State.

That Col. Long be directed to furnish me with swords for the
above men as soon as possible.

That I be at Liberty to Purchase forty waggons and Teams for
the use of my Department, or Col. Long be directed to furnish me
with the number.

JOSEPH GREEN.

July 19th, 17S0.

GOVERNOR'S PROCLAMATION.

State of North Carolina.
By his Excellency Abuer Nash, Esquire, Governor, Captain Gen-
eral and Commander in Chief in and over the said State,
A Proclamation.
Whereas, the Exportation of Provisions from this State will be
attended with manifest injury to the United States, by rendering
it difficult for. the Public Agents and Contractors to procure sup-
plies for the Army, I have therefore thought fit, by & with the
advice of the Council of State, to issue this my Proclamation for
laying an embargo on provisions and Spirituous Liquors, & I do
accordingly hereby prohibit the Exportation of Beef, Pork,

STATE RECORDS.

Bacon,. Wheat, Flour, Corn, Indian-meal & Rice, for the space of
30 days from the date hereof, except such provisions as may, by
the commercial Agent or the Commissioners of Trade, be given in
exchange for Salt. And I do hereby strictly prohibit all Mari-
ners, Masters & Commanders of Vessels, & all other persons what-
soever within this State, from loading on board any vessel for
exportation, & from exporting, all or any of the above enumerated
articles of provisions, by land or water, from the date hereof,
during the term aforesaid, except as is above, excepted, as all such
Mariners, Masters <$; Commanders of Vessels, iVr all such other
persons whatsoever, will answer for the Contrary.

And I do hereby strictly Charge and Command all Naval
Officers & others in their respective departments to exert their
best endeavours to the end that this Embargo be strictly observed.

Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State, at New-
Bern, this twentieth Day of July, A. D. 1730, in the 5th Year of
our Independence.

ABNER NASH.

MAJ. THOMAS BLOTJXT TO GOV. NASH.

(Extract of part of a Letter from Thomas Blount.)

July 23rd, 1780.

Three successful attacks have been made on the Enemy. The
particulars of the first I gave you in a former Letter. The second
was on a Party of about one hundred and thirty tories, Commanded
by Colo. Ferguson, a noted tory from the Northward, and seventy
Light Horse of Cathcart's Legion, Commanded by a Capt. Hook
on the 12th Inst, by a party of SO or 90 Militia, under the com-
mand of Colo. Neale. The surprise was^ compleat. Ferguson,
Hook, a Lieut, and 11 others were killed on the ground, and a
major, 2 Lieuts. & 27 taken, many of whom are since dead of
their wounds ; the remainder are dispersed. Some accoutrements
for Light Horse & a number of Horses were also taken ; of the
exact number we have not yet a certain account, but it is sup-
posed the whole. Our loss was only one man wounded.

Lieut. Col. Williams, Lieut. Davidson, of the Continental Line,
with a Detachment of One Hundred & sixty Light Horse from
Brig. Genl. Rutherford's Brigade, on the 21st Inst, made the third

STATE RECORDS.

attack on about 500 or 600 tories, Commanded by the infamous
Sam Bryan, near Colston on P. D., killed three or four, took
Forty, & put the remainder to flight with more precipitation than
we fled from Bryar Creek ; none halted until they reached the
Enemy's next Post at the Waxhaws, where they threw the whole
into the utmost confusion & Consternation. Their whole time
since has been employed in constructing Fortifications for their
safety. Colo. Davidson was wounded in the Body, 'tis feared
mortally ; two Privates were also slightly wounded, but not a
man killed. To Davidson's misfortune may probably be attrib-
uted their escape.

Maj. Thos. Blount also writes, dated the 23rd July, Informing
that the attack on Col. Moore with a party of torys was not com-
manded by Col. Francis Locke, as was reported, but by seven Cap-
tains of Light Horse, the eldest of which was Capt. Gilbert
Falls, who, together with five others, fell in the attack.
The other Capts. and 1 Lieut, wounded. The whole of our loss
was seven killed & nineteen wounded ; that Seventy of the Enemy
were killed, One Hundred taken Prisoners, three Hundred
Horses & considerable Baggage.

GEN. WOODFORD TO GOV. NASH.

Haddbell's Point, 30th July, 17S0.

Gen. Woodford presents his most respectful compliments to His
Excellency Gov. Nash, & requests the favour of him to have the
inclosed letters sealed and forwarded to yirginia by the post or
any express that may be going that way.

He has also to request that the Gov. will be pleased to order
the post office at Newb'ern to be examined for Letters to the Vir-
ginia officers, and have them forwarded to this place. His pres-
ent situation (he flatters himself) will apologize for the freedom
he has taken.

STATE RECORDS.

COL. BBNJ. SEAWELL TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Wm. Betts', Wake County, 26th July, 1780.

His Excell'y Abner Nash, Esqr., Newbern, from Col. Benj.

Sea well, fav. by Mr. Locky.
Sir:

Your favotir by Mr. Jones, the Express, came to hand accom-
pany'd with fifty Thousand Dollars. You mentioned that you had
already furnished Gen. Eaton with 40,000 Pounds, Colo. Hart of
Edgecomb £10,000 ; that sum, added to the twenty thousand fur-
nished me, amounting in the whole to £70,000, you supposed must
be a sum sufficient for Halifax District but, Sir, I am convinced
you never made a calculation of the matter; as, for Instance, seven
hundred Troops is rais'd in Halifax District, 400 of which is drafts.
Their bounty, at 150 dollars each, is 60,000 dollars, 300 Volunteers
at 300 Do. is 90,000 Dollars amounting in the whole to 60,000
Pounds, which is within ten thousand pounds of the Sum already
advanced. I am made acquainted with the appropriation of the
money Gen. Eaton Rec'd., ct can inform yon he has applied the
whole to the public use ; & yet the Warren, No. Hampton &
Nash men have not rec'd a shilling Bounty ; & this, Sir, is owing
to the enormous sums the Commissary & forage Masters have
been obliged to give for Provisions, &c; and as the men from
those Counties who have not rec'd their bounty make very heavy
Complaints, alledging that they were assured when they marched
from these Counties, and arrived at the place of Gen. Rendesvous,
they should receive their bounty ; bat being disappointed by the
bad Conduct of these County officers I am Authorized to assure you
that the men are fit to mutineer & Return home, & I am convinced
they never will march Out the State unless their bounty is
paid. I have us'd my Endeavours to reconcile them by Promising
that I would state the matter to you &, if Possible, get their
bounty, for which purpose I've sent Mr. Christopher Lockey, the
Commissary to my Regt., to fully inform you of the matter, & if
Possible to get the money. I am convinced, Sir, you can easily
determine the fatal consequences that wou'd Ensue in case of a
mutiny among tire troops ; and I do defy any officer, let his
address and influence be Ever so great among the men, to Prevent

STATE RECORDS.

it if the)' are forced out of the State without their bounty. The
men are fine men, full of spirits, Exceedingly willing to march if
they can only receive the bounty they were promised, & I flatter
myself, under God, with doing much good if the troops can
only be treated as the Law Points out. Therefore I hope that you,
Sir, will consider the matter, cfc furnish me with the bounty for
282 men, one-half which is Volunteers,
And with due respect,

Your Excellency's mo. Obedient Servt.,

BENJ. SEAWELL.
His Excellency the Gov.

K. D. SPEIGHT TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Camp Ancrujsis' Plantation, S. Carolina,
4 Miles above the Cheeaws, July 31st, 17S0.
To His Excellency Governor Nash.
Dear Sir :

I rec'd your favour of the 16th Inst.; Am very happy to hear
that my Crop is in the order you mentioned as by letters rec'd
some time ago from Mr. Hawks I expected it was indifferent.

We arrived here last Night after many disagreeable and fatigu-
ing marches, having gone so far up the Country as to cross the
Yadkin at Moore's Ferry. The Enemy, Immediately upon hear-
ing of the surprise at Colston's, left Anson Court House, it the
main Body Decamped from the Cheraws on 23 Inst. Their coming
into this part of the Country has been of great service, for tho'
numbers went off with them, yet those that remained, having
Experienced the Cruelties of the British, are now willing to light.
A Capt. Thomas, with 25 Militia ( all of them having taken the
oath of Allegience ) under his Command, inarched down to a nar-
row part of the River and took a 1m. at going to Georgetown with
most of the plunder & 102 of the 71>t Regiment, pari of them
sick. It is reported here that the Enemy have left Camden, hut

no Certainty of it. TJheir nearest party to us are aboul -~ on

Line-he's Creek : what their intent I cau't say, but

Imagine when we form a Junction with tho Maryland Line &

STATE EECOEDS.

proceed to the Southward they will retire to Charles Town. My
Compliments to Mrs. Wash and Mr. & Mrs. Ellis.
I am, Dear Sir, with Eespect,

Your obedt. humble Servt.,

E. D. SPAIGHT.

GEN. R. CASWELL TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Camp, Ancrum's Plantation, 31st July, 1780.
Dear Sir:

I had the Honour of writing you a Long Epistle the 16th from
Deep Eiver. I was then very much indisposed and a good deal
Distressed, which might occasion some expressions which I ought
to apologize for, but as they were plain facts, I natter myself
yonr Excellency will excuse the manner.

AVe marched the next day, 17th, & arrived the ISth at the
Cross roads on Deep Eiver, where we lay the 24. In this Time we
were able to procure four Days' provisions before hand by sending
out parties to collect and thresh "Wheat, ly; leave some wheat in
the Mills for the use of those Militia who were to follow us. I
had also procured & sent upwards of one hundred head of Beef
Cattle to the Baron de Kalb, and advised him of my intention to
March the 24 for the Yadkin, & to proceed down on the West side,
at the same time recommending to him to Move down on the
East side of P. D. I accordingly Marched cross the Yadkin at
Moore's Ferry, twenty two miles below Salisbury, & proceeded to
Colston's at the fork whare Rocky River falls into P. D. ; there I
expected to have met with Genl. Eutherford, but he had crossed
P. D., <k was proceeding down on the East side of the Eiver. I
immediately pushed over Rocky Eiver for Anson Court house, &
from thence to this place, which is live miles within the line of
So. Carolina, and about the same distance above the Cheraws.
Genl. Eutherford is nearly opposite me ; And Genl. Gates, who
Commands now in the Southern Department, & is at the head of
the Maryland line, is about twenty five miles above on the same
side with Eutherford, & in his rear are the Virginia Militia. 1
have ordered Genl. Eutherford to joiu me to day, & in two or
three more I expect we shall have a very formidable army in the

STATE RECORDS. 11

Neighbourhood of this place. The British and Tories have
evacuated all their outposts on this River, & have retired towards
Georgetown & Camden ; our State is free of them, except to the
westward of the Catawba ; there may yet remain a few there who
will soon be extirpated. On the arrival of Genl. Gates I presume
a Council of war will be "held, when it will be determined what
steps may yet be pursued, and I natter myself they will have such
a Tendency as to drive the British beyond Santee, & even into
Charlestown.

I have some hopes that our Distresses in some measure will be
relieved here, especially if I can remain so long as to recruit our
Men and Horses, who are much worn down with fatigue, many of
the Men very 111 ; but Doctor Williamson is arrived, and I flatter
myself he will soon put them on their Legs again. We may get
some Materials from Cross Creek, if the Agent has been so oblig-
ing as to forward them. We have about one hundred prisoners,
British & Tories, many of them with Genl. Rutherford. I have
not yet been able to determine where to send them. There are
very few of the Inhabitants of Anson County who have not taken
the Oath of Allegiance to the King of Great Britain ; most of
them are willing to break it & take up Arms against him, saying
they were Compelled by the Brftish, but come in voluntarily to
us. Such as were desirous of supporting the British Government
are either fled with the British or lye out. I beg leave to recom-
mend to your Excellency to issue a proclamation promising
pardon to those who return to their Allegiance to the State, (the
Principal ones excepted,) but as those necessary to be excepted can-
not at present be discriminated, it will, I presume, be necessary to-
send the proclamation with a Blank for their names, or if your
Excellency, by the advice of the Council, thinks it will be proper
for me to issue such proclamation, as Commander in Chief of the
Militia in the Service, you will be pleased to direct me, and I
shall do it with Cheerfulness. I have made most of the Members
of the General Assembly belonging to the Army acquainted with
your Excellency's proclamation for Calling "the Assembly at
Hillsborough the 20th of August, and so many as can be spared
from the Army, will attend. Your Excellency did not, in your let-
ter, require my attendance, so I conclude you wish me to remain
with the Army which I shall do unless you direct otherwise, or it

STATE RECOEDS.

shall appear to me absolutely necessary that I should attend.
When I was at Deep River, I wrote to Mr. Mallet on the subject
of his department as Commissary, agreeable to your Excellency's
request. He in answer informed me that by mistake he had made
the second Application to your Excellency for money without
forwarding the Bond, which mistake he discovered by finding the
Bond still among his papers, and had immediately on such
discovery sent down the Bond.

As the Bearer will return to Camp immediately, your Excel-
lency will be pleased to forward by him any dispatches you may
have for me.

With Sentiments of the greatest regard and Esteem,
I have the Honour to be, Dr. Sir, Yonr Excellency's
Most obedient & very humble Servt.,

R. CASWELL.

MAJ. WM. WILLIAMS TO GOV ABNER NASH.

Hillsborough, 1st August, 1780.
His Excellency Abner Nash, Esq.-
Sir :*
The necessity I am under of addressing your Excellency is the
only apology I can offer for the liberty 1 take in making you
acquainted with some circumstances relative to my present Situa-
tion. I shall first premise that I have been an officer in the line
of this State, and acted as Brigade Major from the first raising of
Continental Troops till I had the misfortune to be (in an instant)
struck speechless and motionless by the Palsy, at Valley Forge,
in Pennsylvania, in the month of Febuary, 1778. I continued a
considerable time in that situation. At length it pleased God to
restore me in part to the use of my speech and Limbs, when
application was made in my behalf to get me a Company in the
Corps of Invalids,, in which I still continue; but in that Corps I
only draw the bare pay, without having any title to Cloathing
and some other immunities, to which the Officers of the Pennsyl-
vania State (in that Corps) are entitled and receive. Next I beg
leave to observe that I am informed a corps of Invalids is to be

STATE RECORDS. 13

established in this State for the Support of such of their officers
and Soldiers as have been disabled in the service, and humbly
pray that your Excellency will be pleased to use your influence to'
have me appointed to the command thereof, being desirous of
serving this State in preference to any other, even as an Invalid,
but am still in hopes that I shall so far recover the use of my
limbs as to have the happiness of serving again in the field.
I am, with respect,

Your Excellency's most obedt. Servt.,

WM. WILLIAMS.

REV. MR. PURCELL TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Beaufort, 1ST. C, August 2d, 1780.
Sib: ■

After a little Respite from so general a Deluge & Bustle that a
man can open his Cabin windows & derive some satisfaction in
looking around him, I thought I could not (meeting with an oppor-
tunity) dedicate a few moments more usefully than in offering
them up to Your Excellency, & more especially when anything
relating to the common good <fe Interest of Country demanded such
a Tribute at my hands.

Upon my first Arrival here on Saturday, Curiosity naturally
induced me to reconnoitre the Beach & enquire who such and
such vessels belonged to — what they were loaded with & where
from. As my enquiries seemed only directed to satisfy an idle
Curiosity, (tho' indeed I had other motives,) my Companion can-
didly answered them, & observed that such a Schooner belonged
to a Person that in all Probability I might know in Chas. Town.
I remarked to him, his Character 1 was perfectly well acquainted
with from his first coming into the < 'ountry, & it had been no little
matter of surprise to me, as well as my fellow Citizens in Charles
Town, how a man from the lowest Class of Overseers should have
arrived so shortly to such a Command of Cash & [nterest. His name
is James Wright, a fellow that has ever been skulking & avoiding
his Duty, & was hero during the Seige. The name yon will find
among6t the Worthies that addressed Sir II. Clinton. Bnt Col.

14 STATE RECORDS.

Easton, who did me the pleasure of calling on me yesterday
P. M., & who I found I might unbosom myself to, acquainted me
that it is not the identical Worthy, the Owner of this Vessel, but
a Carpenter in Charles Town. Be that as it may, I have assur-
ances of his going into Charles Town since the Capitulation —
consequently can't partake of its priviledges, but must of Neces-
sity have sworn Allegiance to procure a Reception. This, Sir, I
apprehend, will amount to Seizure of his Property here, which is
not inconsiderable. Yr. Excellency will be pleased to ?end me a
Commission for that Purpose, ife I'll speedily execute it. If any
Resistance shou'd be made, You will be pleased to direct me
where to apply for Military Assistance, & I'll let them see I will
act in any Capacity when my Country calls.

The Schooner is loaded with Rum Arms, &c, part for the Pub-
lic.

A Prisoner, Capt. Joiner, who was cast away in the Little Bob,
(her Cargo half the Public,) upon my Enquiries how he had fared
and what he had saved, replied in the old and usual Stile, The
Public Goods were nearly all lost. Poor America ! how art thou
jilted & abused. A successful or saving voyage must ever be the
Merchant's. Where Loss or Damage are sustained they must be
charged on the Dr. side of the Book to thy Account. Besides the
above, with another Schooner on the Beach, Capt. Dixon I find
has Property to a great Amount on his hands belonging to the
sd. Culpret Wright. How to come at the sight and Knowledge
of this I must beg of your Excelly. some legal Instructions. And
I wou'd scortch every Siner of the law so as to almost make them
crack, rather than suffer such Duplicity of Conduct in such dirty
Villains to pass unnoticed. 'Tis a Debt we owe the virtuous few
amongst us, & will in some Measure ease their Burdens. Should
not Capt. Femes leave Newbern so soon as yr. Excelly. may
think it expedient that I shou'd have an answer, I presume some
body will be sent to me on Purpose. A Delay may be attended
with a total LooS.

With yr. Exeelly's Leave I will witli Pleasure take under Charge
"Capt. Joiner's Cargo — I mean the public part — & make him
swear to the Loss of the remainder. And in every Instance during

STATE RECORDS.

my residence here, tending to promote the public Welfare & hap-
piness, no one shall more cheerfully engage than

Yr Excelly's most obliged & Humble Servt.,

PURCELL.
Beaufort, Wednesday Morning.
P. S. My respectful Compliments to Mrs. Nash & the Family.
A Copy of the Subscribers' Names to the Address might be of a
Service to me here. Excuse my Scrall & Paper. Capt. Femes
called on me ready to start before I had begun, it seems now very
impatient.

P.

CHRISTO LAKEY TO GOV. ABEER NASH.

Tarborough, August 2nd, 17S0.
Ho. Sir:
You will Receive per John Lakey a Letter from Col. Benj.
Seawell, which I should of waited on you myself with, but am
very sick at present. I have been obliged to give very high
prices for provisions, which has taken much Moore Money than
you might of Expected. I shall be much obliged to you to send
me by the Bearer Some money, as 1 am Out, & now have here
between forty it fifty Delinkwents that has Lane back to furnish
with provisions to Camp ; they will March in two Days from this.
I am, Hon'd Sir, Your most humble Serv't,

CHRISTO. LAKEY.

REV. MR. PURCELL TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

May it Please your Excellence :
Since I had the pleasure of addressing you by Capt. Femes,
which thro' Hurry & teasing I fear was very imperfect & scarce
legible, I have had Occasion to try the Effect & Value of the
State Money here, & find it beggars every Comparison we cou'd
make of Wilmington & Newbern. It has descended so low that
the very Negroes, who I always entertained the Idea of possessing
no Principle but Fear, are influenced by the infection. A morti-

16 STATE RECORDS.

fying Instance of this presented itself this morning prior to my
rising from Bed, otherwise the bronzed Front of the scoundrel
should have felt the Effect of my Displeasure. There were a°
delicious variety of Fish & some chicken & Turtle brought to
Town. A servant was dispatched to buy some, but the Fellow,
brought up with Insolence amidst his scaly Tribe, refused to
deliver any without hard Money, and audaciously superadded,
"JVbt a d — m'd Son of a, B — ch in the Town shall have any with-
out it." The Fellow belonged to Col. Easton ; I purpose riding to
the Col's, this Evening & demonstrating to him, together with the
Insolence, the heinousness of the fellow's Offence. If he Indulges
him in the former, he may rest assured that, tho' the coming of
the Saviour has abolished the Mosaical Institution, yet as a clergy-
man and a Friend to all its Valuable Precepts, its Discipline &
good order, I shall dare to inflict 40 Strides save one ; And as for
the latter I shall leave him to the Civil Power, who I hope will not
bear the sword in vain, but be a Terror to the evil doers & a
Kewarder of those who do well. Tho' indeed I always thought
the latter useless, because virtue & honest dealing ever bear a
heartfelt & self-approving Testimony, & are their own Reward.
Apropos with Regard to the civil Magistrates, I fancy your
Excelly's. Proclamation never made its appearance here ; It would
not have been amiss. Pardon my Presumption in offering advice
when amidst the Multitude of such Counsellors as your Excellency
is surrounded with there must, as Solomon says, he safety, & ren-
der the Hint tolerably insignificant ; but as Ignorance and Pre-
sumption are such true Concomitants & rival Sisters, & your
Excellency's goodness having fed & fostered me with the latter,
will I hope move you not to make any unhappy Division between
the Sisterhood, or pass any severe Censure on the former, when I say
it wou'd not have been amiss if your Proclamation had been
inclosed in each of the Delegate's Letters. However, 'tis not, I
fancy, too late ; if your Excelly. will send a few here I will post
them at Convenient & Public Places, & watch their Effect. And
if, when the law is thus brought home even to their very Doors, I
shou'd find any of them tripping, there will be only this alterna-
tive : They must drive or banish me from Beaufort, or I'll correct
& reform them ; they are mostly cursed Tories.

STATE KECORDS. 17

You will say, perhaps, this will be a happy Prelude & foretaste
to a spiritual Reformation ; but its being so diametrically oppo-
site to the system that every cunning & political Reformer has
adopted, not to enslave the Mind first before he Subjugates the
Body, that I know not whether I can natter myself with any
success in running Counter to it. It will be, however, pleasing to
me, A: I hope no less so to the Community, to work upon their
temporals, for when once a Man is reduced even to make a Virtue
of Necessity & to become, as it were, a good Member of Society,
not from the directive Impulse of his own Mind, but from a strict
hand & watchful Eye over him, 'tis great odds but the Pleasure
of well doing will so forcibly work upon the Fancy as to make
him revere & admire it. This is the Physic used only to have
been applyed at Beaufort; and if those that should have admin-
istered it had not been as torpid &' lethargic as the Patients,
rougher Methods wou'd be totally useless.

By this time I fancy I have exhausted your Excellency's
Patience in trying to read my Scrall, & I think I almost have a
wish that I had come & deciphered it myself. Begging leave,
therefore, to recommend Mr. Bordeau, the bearer of this, Brother
to a worthy & respectable Merchant in Charles Town, to yr.
Excelly's. Notice,

. I subscribe myself your Excellency V

Most obliged Humble Servt..

PURCELL.

P. S. My best Respects attend Mrs. Nash & the little Folks, &
my worthy Flock, that you may think worthy of them. A cast off
News Paper wou'd be a treat to me here — do take Pity.

MAJ. GENL. GATES TO GOV. ABNER XASH.

Cash' West Hank of Pedee, )

Neau M -.sis'- Feeet, 3rd August, 1780. j
Sir:
I had the Honour to address your Excellency from Hillsbor-
ough the 19th Ultimo, by Genl. Huger, but have not as yet
received any answer. The Distress this Army has suffered, and
15—2

STATE EECOEDS.

still continues to suffer, for want of Provisions has perhaps
destroyed the finest Opportunity that could be presented of driv-
ing the Enemy's advanced post, in all likelihood, even into Charles
Town. Lord Cornwallis is believed to be gone to Savannah ; has
weakened his Main Body at Camden, where Lord Rawdon com-
mands, and withdrawn the troops from Augusta, Cheraws and
Anson's Court House. I am astonished that I have not Intelli-
gence of any Flour coming to me from the Interior part of the
State. Your Excellency cannot believe this miserable Country,
already ravaged by the Enemy and gleaned by the Militia under
the Generals Caswell & Rutherford, can afford a Handful to me.
I must believe your Excellency's Letter in answer to mine from
Richmond, that you had then done all you thought necessary to
provide us. I am anxious that this Letter should find your Excel-
lency and the Executive Council at Hillsborough exerting all
your authority and Influence to supply your almost famished
Troops. Flour and Rum are the Articles the most in Request in
this Climate, which Bad Weather contributes to render more
unwholesome. Rum is as necessary to the Health of a Soldier as
good Food. Without these, full Hospitals and a thin Army will
be all your State or Congress can depend upon in the Southern
Department. For my own part, I have never lost one Moment in
pressing the Army forward from the Instant I joined it to this
Moment, and when I can do more more shall be done. Depend
not, Sir, upon Commissaries ; they will deceive you. Depend only
upon honest Men, of sound Whig Principles, and whose souls are
Superior to sordid Gain. Genl. Stevens, with the Virginia Militia,
is halted at Buffaloe Ford, Fifty Miles in my Rear, and cannot
proceed for want of Provisions. I March To-morrow at Day-
break.

With Great Regard, I am, Sir,

Your Excellency's most Obedient Humble Servt.,

HORATIO GATES.
P. S. Genl. Rutherford's Division have no Tents. I hope those
I wrote for to your Excellency are in a fair way to be sent for-
ward.

STATE RECORDS.

BRIG. GENL. JOHN SIMPSON TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Chatham, August 3rd, 17S0.
Sir:

The Pitt Volunteers, under the Command of Col. John Salter
& Major James Gorham, Intend to be at Kingston on the 18th
Inst., on their way to join Geul. Caswell. They will want guns
and potts. If there is none at Kingston, should be glad if they
could be sent up in time. I expect the Companies will Consist of
one hundred horse & foot. I have sent inclosed my Bond for
£1,000 for paying bounty to such as may want, forage for the
horses, provisions, &c. Should be glad you'd send the money by
Mr. Lockey.

I am, your Exce. most obed. Servt.,

JOHN SIMPSON,

Brig. Genl.
Gov. Nash, New Bern.

GEN. R. CASWELL TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

South Carolina, Camp near
Andersons, 30 Miles Wt. of P.D.
August 5th, 1780.
Dear Sir :
I cannot omit so good an opportunity (by Col. Long) of writing
you, tho' I have little information to give you since my Letter of
the 3rd Inst, by Capt. Arnold, whom I sent to Hillsboro witli 34
British prisoners.

We are now thirty miles from the Cheraws on the Camden road,
waiting for Genl. Gates' coming up with the Maryland line. He
will be with us in a few hours. Fourteen miles from hence (Lynche's
Creek) the Enemy have a post, and I am told intend to meet us
from thence or wait our arrival & give us Battle ; their strength
we cannot get an exact account of; our information is from 700 to
2,900 ; if the latter is true, I imagine they have Collected their
whole force out of Charles Town ; here 'tis said they have not
more than 1,000 men. They have also several Bodies of Tories
on the Branchs of Lynch's Creek, & from thence 'tis thirty miles

20 STATE RECORDS.

to Camden. A Major Davie, of Mecklenburg, has had two small
Skirmishes within a few days past with the Tories near the
Catawba, in which he was successful. That we shall be so I trust,
if we come to action. Our men, tho' worn down with fatigue & in
some measure want of Bread, are yet in Spirits, & I flatter myself
will behave well on Tryal. Some Gentlemen of the Army will
come into the Assembly ; by them, if I am in the land of the living,
I promise myself the pleasure of giving yon a more satisfactory
account. You will guess my siluatiou when I inform you that we
have been for twenty Hours in full expectation of each Hour's
producing an Action. I do not Sleep; of Course I am not well,
But,

With great regard and Esteem,

I have the Honor to be, Dear Sir,

Your Excellency's most obedt. Servt.,

R CASWELL.

BURGWIN TO GOVERNOR ABNER NASH.

Marsh Castle, August 5th, 17S0.
His Excellency Governor Nash, at the Palace, New Bern.
Sib:

The Lady of Richard Mercer, Esqr., (Purveyor Genl. at Charles-
Town before its Capitulation,) two Daughters, young Ladys, & a
son with their Servts., have been at my house ever since May, and*
having'lately heard that Mr. Mercer is Parol led to Geo. Town on
Acct. of his health makes them very Anxious of returning thereto
him.

I must therefore take the Liberty of Soliciting your Excellency
to Grant them a Flag or Pass for that purpose. They have a
Stage Waggon & 5 Horses, But as Mrs. Mercer came into this State
with Gov. Rutledge's Lady, it will be necessary for me to lend her
a Chaise and a pair of Horses, with a servant, to, fetch them back
from Geo. Town, all which I must beg the favour May be included
in the Pass, and as it will be loansome for the Ladies to go by
themselves through the Woods from hence, If it meets Your Excel-
ly's approbation I will send my Clerk, Mr. Bane, with them, for
whose Integrity & Attachment to this State 1 can be Answerable.

STATE RECORDS.

The Bearer, Mr. B. Stevens, will deliver this to your Excell'y,
and has my directions to wait for an answer.
I have the Honor to remain,

With great Respect, & Sincere Regard, Sir,

Your Excelly's Mo. Obedt. & very hble. Servt.,

BURGWIK

ADYERTISEMENT-IMSORTED GOODS FOR SALE.

[North Carolina Gazette, August 7, 1778.]
Imported in the last vessel from France, and to be sold at
public vendue on Tuesday, 2d September next, by Savage &
Westmore at Edenton for cash, or tobacco at the market price, to
be delivered at Suffolk or South Quay, the following large Assort-
ment of Goods :

Superfine and seconds, scarlet, white, blue, brown and drab
cloths, narrow cloths and serges of different qualities and colours,
black tamini for breeches, ready-made cloth jackets and breeches,
quality binding, fine and coarse white linens, Britannias, Russia
and other sheetings, oznaburgs, check linen and handkerchiefs,
ready made shirts, cambricks, calicoes, chintz and cottons in
pieces and gown patterns, fine tambour waistcoats, gauze of
different qualities, gauze handkerchiefs, a large assortment of
black and white blond lace, silks in pieces and gown patterns,
ribbons, black and white silk stockings, thread, cotton and worsted
stockings, men's and women's shoes, white and coloured thread,
writing and printing paper, sealing wax, wafers and quills, black
lead pencils in cases, gold epaulets, ostrich feathers and sashes for
officers, sword belts, an assortment of hardware, table knives and
forks, pen-knives, razors, scissors, &c, &c, files, needles and pins,
gilt and horn buttons, paper snuff boxes, looking glasses, and
combs of different kinds, glass and earthen ware, pipes, fine and
felt hats, tea in cannisters, black pepper, cotton and wool cards,
steel, French brandy in hogsheads, quarter cask and three gallon
kegs, claret in hogsheads, claret in bottles, Fontenac, Malaga
and Muscadel wines, etc., French liquors of different kinds, and
scented waters, orgeat in cases of 12 bottles each, hair powder in
pounds, raisons in small boxes, currants in casks, ratisea in cases
of 12 bottles each, cappalaire in ditto, essences in different quali-
ties, linseed and olive oil in cask, fine Florence oil in cases of 12

STATE RECORDS.

bottles, anchovies in ditto, olives in ditto, capers in ditto, truffel
in ditto, olives with anchovies and capers, fruit preserved in brandy
white sope in boxes, mould candles in boxes, manna in boxes
senna, jalap, Jesuit's bark, glauber and epsom salts, sarsaparella.
sail duck of different sorts and qualities, cordage, &c, &c, &c.

COL. W. RUSSELL TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Hyde County, 8th of August, 1780.
Sib:
Your orders for the second draft did not come to hand tell the
28th of July; Since have used my utmost endeavours to march the
men on, which I could not effect till the 8th of August. My ill
state of health put it out of my power to act as first Col. of the
County any longer; therefore must beg leave of your Excellency
and the honourable Council to resign that Commission.

Leiut. Colo. Buroage Silby is a Gentleman worthy of that Com-
mand.

I am, your Excellency's

Most obedient Humble Servt.,

W. RUSSELL, Colonel.

COL. JOHN PATIN TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Pasquotank County, 9th August, 1780.
Deak Sir :
I take this opportunity to inform your Excellency that when
I wrote you before that I was in a bad state of helth. I had been
almost at the point of Death, but seem to be somthing on the
mend at that Time, but still have Constant feavers, and a fever fell in
my leg, which renders me quite incapable of any Duty in the
Army or Else where at this time; but if I am able to march the
men at the Time they can be in Rediness, I will doe it with all
Possible Expedition Emagineable, and, Sir, if I am not able at the
Time They march, I should be glad to now your opinion on the
Case. There is a man which is the olds Capt. in the County wold

STATE RECORDS.

take the command of them at the Time if I wan't able, whos name
is Thomas Reding, by your Consent Mr. Lynn can tell yon what
a condition I am in at this Time, for I don't make wors of it than
it rely is, for I am as well a wisher to my Country as any man,
and would doe all in my power to serve my Country. There
wants three Captins' Commissions, Three Lieutenants' Commissions
and fore Ensigns', which please to send by Mr. Lynn, and you will
greatly oblige.

I am, Sir,

Your most obedient & Humble Servant,

JOHN PATIN, Lieut. Colo.
N. B. The officers that is to goe out now wants their Commis-
sions. J. P.

HENRY YOUNG TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Wilmington, August the 9th, 1780.
To His Excellency Abner Nash, Esqr.
Sir :
When Mr. Benj. Hawkins was in this town he advanced to me
Twenty thousand pounds, to be laid out for the public nse. I have
transmitted to him my acct. agst. the Publick, amounting to £19,-
273, which with sundry accts. yet to commit for a Horse, 2 pr.
Pistols & some Beef, which when paid, with two Horses more
that I am to purchase by order of the General, for two Light
Horse men of the last draft, which will far exceed the sum I rec'd
from you & Mr. Hawkins. I would be much obliged to you to
grant a warrant on the Treasury for Twenty thousand pounds; the
sum I rec'd of Mr. Hawkins I delivered to him, to whom I have
sent a Bond payable to your Excellency for the full amount of
the Monies rec'd from yourself and Mr. Hawkins. You may be
well assured 1 shall render a faithful account at the next meeting
of the Assembly.

I am, with Respect, Sir,

Your Excellency's most Obedt. Servt.,

HENRY YOUNG.
P. S. I would be much obliged to your Excellency to send me
some Blank Commission, as there is several officers in this County
that have none.

STATE RECORDS.

GENL. LINCOLN TO GENL. WASHINGTON.

[From " Letters to Washington," No. 40, pages 141—182.]

Endorsed : Major Genl. Lincoln's report of his Conduct as Com-
mand t. of Charlestown — private.

(Private.)

Hingham, August 11, 1780.

Could a consciousness of having the fullest intentions to serve
my country, and a sincere attempt to have executed such inten-
tions have so availed me as to have discharged the debt of respon-
sibility to the public for my conduct while their servant, and
especially to you, my dear General, as my Commanding Officer,
I should have saved you the trouble of this long epistle ; but as it
cannot, I do with the greatest chearfulness give your Excellency
the following short state of matters relative to Charlestown, which
will in some measure point you to the causes of the loss of that
place, and to the line of conduct pursued by me, as senior officer,
before and at the time of its surrender.

Some questions on this subject I think will naturally arise in
your Excellency's mind, and in order that I may write more intel-
ligently I shall suppose and endeavor to answer such as follow :

First, why the defense of Charlestown was undertaken. Though
I pretend not to plead an express order of Congress directing the
defense of that place, yet 1 can say from the following resolutions,
and the line of conduct pursued by Congress, it appeared to me to
be their intentions that the measure should be adopted, and that,
circumstanced as we were, it was right in itself.

As early as January 1st, 1776, when Congress were informed
that an attack was intended upon Charlestown, they immediately
recommended that a vigorous defense should be made. In the
beginning of the year 1779, when it appeared that the subjugation
of South Carolina was an object which claimed the attention of
the enemy, Congress sent Lieutenant Colouel Cambray, an engi-
neer, to South Carolina, for the express purpose of fortifying the
town of Charlestown (in which business he was employed until its
surrender). On the tenth of November following, when the
designs of the enemy no longer remained a doubt, they ordered
three of their Continental frigates to Charlestown for the defense
of its harbour, and on my frequent representations to them that

STATE RECORDS. 25

succours were necessary for defending the town, they ordered them
accordingly, and at no time intimated to me that my ideas of
attempting the defense of it were improper.

That the measure was right in itself, circumstanced as we were,
will, I hope, appear, when it is considered that Charlestown is the
only mart in South Carolina and the Magazine of the State,
that its natural strength promised a longer delay to the enemy's
operations than any other part of the country. In abandoning it
we must have given up the Continental ships of war and all other
stores while there was yet a prospect of succour — for the harbour
had been blocked up by a superior naval force previous to the
debarkation of the troops. The stores could not have been moved
by water, and the waggons we had or could have procured would
have been unequal to the transportation of our baggage and our
field artillery. The place, abandoned, would have been garrisoned
by an inconsiderable force, while the enemy's army would have
operated unchecked by our handful of troops, unable to oppose
them in the field or impede their progress through the country ;
and, had our expected succours arrived, we could only have ulti-
mately submitted to the inconveniences of an evacuation without
our stores, when further opposition no longer availed.

2ndly, why the Army, Stores, (fee., were not brought off when it
appeared that the post could no longer be maintained.

The expectation that our succours, when arrived, would so cover
our right as to render an evacuation, which should become
expedient, practicable, had been an argument in leading us
to attempt a defense. That we had every reason to expect
these succours is apparent from the assurances I received
from the State of So. Carolina that they would call down
2,000 of their Militia ; that the Governor of North Carolina
wim Id send on the remainder of the draughts made the last fall,
amounting to 1,500 ; that he would order to embody and march,
when called for, 2,000 more (they were called for) and permit
General Rutherford to march with all the volunteers he could
collect. Of these I was encouraged to expert 500; besides his
Excellency gave me reason to expect t hat, as soon as the Assem-
bly should meet, further aid would begiven. This will appear by
extracts of his letter to me of the 10th of Feby. last: "I have
been honored with your favours of the 15th of December, 3d, 8th,

STATE RECORDS.

21, 29, & 31st Ultimo. I certainly should have done myself the
pleasure of answering them long before this if I had not waited in
full expectation of the Assembly's meeting and taking them under
consideration. My hopes and my expectations in that particular
have been baffled ; a sufficient number of members to constitute the
General Assembly have not appeared, though appointed to meet on
the 25th ultimo, and those who have met are now about to disperse
and leave the important matters for the next General Assembly
to take up. A general election will take place on the 10th of
March, and I shall convene the Members as soon after as possible.
In the mean time I have issued orders to assemble two thousand
militia on the borders of South Carolina, to the westward P. D.,
where they will be ready to inarch .to your assistance if necessary^
or to be employed in this State, as exigencies require.'"

" I have written to General Rutherford to give you every assist-
ance in his power, and not to wait for further orders from me ; to
march himself, if need be, with such volunteers as can suddenly
be collected."

" I have, in the most earnest & pointed terms, written to the .Brig-
adiers in the several Districts in the State to order on every man
of the late draughts, and I natter myself the present alarming
accounts of the arrival of the British troops to the Southward will
stimulate them and other officers to an immediate discharge of the
duties of their respective stations, by which means we may hope
to get the number voted by the State into the held."

The remainder of Gen Scott's Brigade was ordered on, which
amounted to ab nit 400, and the Virginia State troops about 500
more, General Hogun's Brigade, the Virginia line, and Col. "Wash-
ington's Horse, amounting, as returned by Congress to me, in
the whole to three thousand & odd. Thus you see that the whole
succours ordered were Nine thousand & nine hundred men. Of
this number we received in Garrison of

South Carolina Militia 300

North Carolina Do ._ - 300

General Hogun's Brigade -600

The Virginia line from the Main Army— 750

1950
The greatest part of the remainder we expected would soon

STATE EECOKDS.

arrive, but in that we were disappointed. On these orders and
assurances were our hopes of succours founded. To facilitate their
arrival, and to aid in procuring supplies for them and the garri-
son, His Excellency, Governor Rutledge, was persuaded to leave
the town about the 12th of April and take post in the country
between the Cooper and the San tee. That we might derive the
best services from these troops, a work was ordered to be thrown
up at Cainhoy, a strong commanding ground on the roads, nine
miles from town, which was intended to be a deposit of our stores.
Another was directed aud partly thrown up at the point of Lam-
pries, to keep open the communication with the town by boats, as
no armed vessels, if they should pass our obstructions in the
river, could lay between the works of the town and those on the
point. A post was also ordered at Lanier's Ferry over the Santee
to collect and secure the boats necessary with dispatch to cross
our expected succours, and with facility to effect a retreat, should
that become necessary.

On the 16th of April I was informed that our horse, which had
been posted near Monk's corner for the purpose of covering that
part of the country, and our succours, who were marching in detach-
ments, had been surprised, and the enemy had fallen down on the
peninsula, between the Cooper and the Santee, with their Horse,
about 250, and about Six hundred infantry. Whether, previous to
this unhappy event, while we were daily expecting succours, we
could have retreated with honor to ourselves and in justice to our
country, your Excellency will judge, and whether, hereby, the
moment of doing it with a probability of success was not lost, or
at least that it could not then be attempted with propriety, I beg
to offer to you the opinion of the Council of Officers on this
head :

"At a Council of Officers held in garrison, Charles Town, 20 &
21st of April, A. D. 1780,

Present, Major General Lincoln.
f Moultrie.
Mcintosh.
Brigadiers < Woodford.

■} H OOU1U

I Scott.

til. .gun.

Colonel Laumov, Engineer.

Beckman, of the Artillery.

Simmons, Commandant of the Charlestown Mili

STATE RECORDS.

General Lincoln laid before the Council the strength of
the garrison, the State of the provisions, the situation of the
enemy, the information he had received relative to reinforcements,
and the state of the obstructions which had been thrown in the
river between the Exchange and Shnte's Folly. He requested
the Opinion of the Council what measures the interest and safety
of the Country called us to pursue under our present circum-
stances.

They advised, as a retreat would be attended with many dis-
tressing inconveniences, if not rendered altogether impracticable
from the undermentioned cau.ses, viz.:

1st. The civil .authority were utterly averse to it, and inti-
mated in council if it was attempted they would counteract
the measure.

2d. It was to be performed, under this apprehension, in face of
an enemy much superior to us, across a river three miles broad,
in large ships & vessels, the movement of which must be regu-
lated to the wind and tide.

3d. Could these obstacles be surmounted and the troops trans-
ported, we must force our way through a very considerable body
of the enemy, who were in possession of the passes on our rout to
the Santee, the only road by which we can retreat.

4th. Supposing us arrived at that river, new and dangerous
difficulties are again to be encountered from the want of boats to
cross it to an army wasted and worn down by action, fatigue and
famine, & closely pursued, as we must be, by the enemy's Horse
and infantry, who, from the delay we must inevitably meet, might
be detached early enough to reach us.

That offers of capitulation, before our affairs become more crit-
ical, should be made to Genl. Clinton, which would admit of the
army's withdrawing and afford security to the persons & property
•of the inhabitants.

[Signed.] WILLIAM MOULTRIE.

LACH'D McINTOSH.
¥M. WOODFORD.
CHARLES SCOTT.
JAMES HOCUN.
LAITMOY.
B. BECKMAN.
W. SIMMONS.

STATE RECORDS.

The terms proposed, in consequence thereof, we rejected. We
did not think proper at that time to recede from them, as there
was a hope left that succours might arrive, open our communica-
tion and give us an opportunity of retreating; and as, finally, we
should be in no worse situation when we had delayed the enemy
as long as possible, which was an object worth our attention, as
it would give the people in the neighbouring States an oppor-
tunity to rouse A: embody; and as delaying the operations of the
enemy Southward would afford the Northern States time to fill up
their battalions and be prepared for future service.

About the 19th of April the reinforcements from New York
arrived, which enabled the enemy to strengthen . with that force
the troops on the Peninsula and to take post at Haddrel's Point,
which obliged us to abandon Lampries. The better to effect a
remove, should an opp'y offer, two twenty-gun ships were kept
mantled, and all the other boats and vessels in readiness to move
at the shortest notice.

The propriety of again attempting a retreat came again before
a council of officers on the 26th of April. Present with me:
'Moultrie.
Mcintosh.

Woodford.

■ I'luadiers^ 0 ,,
Scott.

Du port ail.
Hogun.
Colo. Simmons.
Capt. Whipple.
I proposed to the Council whether, in their opinion, the evacu-
ation of the garrison was an expedient and practicable measure.
The Council were unanimously of opinion that it was not expe-
dient, as being impracticable. This was signed by the Gentlemen
above named. No opportunity more favorable ofiered before the
capitulation, for Lord Cornwallis posted himself, after garrisoning
Haddrel's and Lampries, in St. John's Parish, his right towards
the Cooper and his left towards the Wando. His force, from the
best information I could obtain, exceeded two thousand men,
besides the light Horse.

Under these circumstances, & the high assurances made me that
I should be succoured and reinforced, no person will, I am per-
Bnaded, (as 1 said before,) suppose that the town could, with pro.

30 STATE RECORDS.

priety, have been abandoned previous to the 16th of April,
when I received information that our Horse had been routed, and
that the enemy had taken post between the Santee & the Cooper ;
and subsequent to that period many were the difficulties which
intervened and would have attended an attempt to retreat. The
enemy's approaches had been brought within three hundred yards
of our lines. The troops must have embarked and have crossed
the Cooper in full view of the enemy, on board large ships and
vessels regulated altogether by the wind & tide. They must have
landed at Lampries' Point or up the Wando, from either of which
places they had forty miles only to march before they reached the
Santee, a large navigable river, between which and the place of
debarcation lay the enemy, in whose power it was to break down
the bridges & encumber the roads, and to destroy fhe boats at the
ferries, which would have effectually prevented our crossing the
river and delayed us until the enemy, from the lines, had reached
the Santee, which they would have been able to do nearly as soon
as we could by following us in their boats and landing at Scott's
ferry ; or, had they marched by land and crossed the Cooper above,
the means of which were in their power, they would have had but
fourteen miles farther to march than we should, had we been so
fortunate to find boats where we wished them, viz.: Lynches'
& Lancie's ferries ; but should we have been reduced, from the
want of boats, to follow the river farther up, we must have
marched across the enemy's line. Besides these obstacles, almost
insuperable in themselves, we had a movement to effect which
required the utmost secrecy, in opposition to the opinion and
wishes of the civil authority.

3dly. Whether the necessary supplies of provisions were in time
ordered, and why the defense of the town was undertaken with so
small a quantity in it?

In the latter end of July last, at the close of the campaign, I
made an estimate of the supplies which would probahly be wanted
for the next, estimating our force at six thousand men, and gave
orders to the several departments accordingly.

As, from the warmth of the Southern climate, it has been found
difficult to cure and preserve salted provisions, and as the article
of salt was not at all times to be obtained in sufficient quantities,
our dependence for meat has generally been on fresh beef, with

STATE RECORDS.

which, the greatest part of the year, the country abounds, which,
while the country was open to us, could always be procured, and
by which the army was with more ease supplied.

I was induced to order, in the first place, two thousand barrels
of beef, and the same quantity of pork only, to be put up, but on
the failure of the expedition against Savannah, the Commissary
received orders to increase the quantity to five thousand barrels
of each. The country did not afford us flour, but rice in plenty.
As my papers, containing my orders on this head, are not here, I
beg to recite an extract of a letter from Mr. Rutledge, the Com-
missary of purchases, being in point : " The latter end of July,
when you did me the honor of appointing me to the office of pur-
chasing commissary, you sent me an indent of such provisions as
would be necessary for the ensuing campaign, — among other
articles, two thousand barrels of beef and as many of pork. After
the repulse of Savannah, in consequence of a letter you wrote to
the Governor, — I was desired to provide, in addition to your order,
three thousand barrels of beef and the same number of pork."

While our right flank was kept open, and our communication
with the country preserved, ample supplies of provisions could be
daily thrown into the garrison. That our communication would
be maintained, we had the highest expectation. And from this
we were induced to attempt a defense of the town, so that when
it was found there was in garrison a sufficiency of provisions to
supply the troops while they could maintain the post against the
regular approaches of the besieging army, an evacuation founded
on the shortness of our supplies could not have been justified,

4-thly. Whether the State of the Department was from time to
time represented to Congress and the necessary succours called
for I

To evidence that every attention was paid to this matter would
be easy for me if I could lay before your Excellency all my let-
ters to Congress, the Scates of No. Carolina and So. Carolina; but
to examine them now would engross too much of your time. I
therefore shall transcribe one of them only, and that to the Com-
mittee of Congress, and remind you of the many the receipt of
which has been acknowledged by His Excellency, Governor Cas-
well, and the measures he pursued in consequence of them, and
that Colonel John Laurens & Major Clarkson waited on Congress

STATE RECORDS.

at my request, and stated to thern, viva voce, our weak and defense-
less state, and solicited the necessary aid.

Chaklestown, So. Caeolina, October 27th, 1779.
To the Honble. Committee of Correspondence.
Gentlemen :
I did myself the honor to address you on the 22d by Major
Clarkson. I gladly embrace this opportunity by Colonel Lau-
rens, who is kind enough to repair to Philadelphia, and to Gen-
eral Washington's HdQuarters, to represent the particular and
distressful situation of these Southern States, to solicit further
reinforcements, and to aid in forwarding such as shall be ordered.
That a respectable force of disciplined troops are necessary here,
and probably will be more so, is too evident to be questioned, if
we mean to secure these States. When we consider the advantages
that would result to Britain on her possessing them, and the dis-
advantages to the United States, her policy must point to her
the necessity and importance of subjugating them ; for hereby she
will secure their trade in general, a supply of lumber and provis-
ions for the. West Indian Islands, from the want of which they
now labor under many embarrassments ; hereby she will secure to
herself many valuable harbours on the shores of the Continent,
contiguous to her Islands, where she can secure her fleets sent for
the protection of her own trade and for the annoyance of her
enemies; hereby she will secure a great acquisition of territory
and strength for the disaffected will readily engage in her cause
the Indians will be spirited, easily supplied, and without diffi-
culty retained in her service. They will open to themselves a
communication through thelakes with Canada, and by the numer-
ous tribes of savages on our inland frontiers keep them con-
stantly in war, destroy their growth, happiness and prosperity, if
not depopulate them. In the same proportion as they acquire
strength we are debilitated ; besides, if the Southern States are
lost, we have not only their proportion of the common debt thrown
upon the other States, who are now groaning under the idea of the
weight of their own burthens, but it will give a fatal wound to
our paper currency, and probably add more to the depreciation of
it than anything which has already happened ; for the expecta-
tion that it will at some future day be redeemed stamps it with
value ; as this is lessened, the value of it must decrease.

STATE EECOEDS. 33

If the enemy are permitted to enjoy the extremes of the United
States, from which they can with ease enlarge their own limits
and Circumscribe ours, we shall soon be in the most unhappy
situation, encircled by land and cooped up by sea. What more
would they have to do than keep garrisons in the Middle States,
ruin their trade and open a generous one southward and eastward?
Besides the advantages which would accrue to the enemy by
enjoying these States, which are, I think, sufficient inducements
to attempt a subjugation of them, — they will also be encouraged
to the measure by considering what little expense and hazard they
would obtain them with. Their rear is covered by their friends,
their right by their marine, and their left by the disaffected and
the Indians. Indeed, if this town was in their possession, from the
natural strength of it, they commanding at sea, all the force we
could bring against it would be ineffectual to regain it. . These
are some among the many reasons which induced me to believe
that the enemy will reinforce their troops, already in this quarter,
and attempt to extend and secure this conquest, and that it is
of the first importance to the safety and well being of'the United
States effectually to counteract their designs. Such are the
arguments which remind us of our interest. There are others
which more immediately affect our feelings. Whereshall we find
an asylum for those who have hitherto lived in affluence and
plenty, and who, by their exertions in the cause of their country,
are become peculiarly obnoxious to the common foe ? Shall we
leave them the cruel alternative only of suffering the ignominious
insults of an unfeeling enemy, and wearing at last those chains
which they have at so much hazard sought to shun, or, foregoing
their Cornier happiness and reduced to a situation little short of
beggary and want, force them to seek shelter in some neighbor-1
ing State* Honor and humanity both forbid it.

The necessity of sending troops will further appear when it is
considered that the enemy have in this quarter about three thou-
sand men; that they expect a large addition to that number ;
that the whole of our forces of Continental troop- now
in this State is short of one thousand men ; That 150 mo
be expected from No. Carolina, and about 800 from Virginia, by
General Scott — the whole less than two thousand. What Militia
No. Carolina will send is vet uncertain. Most of those which
15—3

STATE RECORDS.

can be drawn out in this State will be needed for the back parts
of the Country to restrain the unfriendly and the savages. To
convince the people here that Congress have their safety at heart,
and will support them & will discourage every idea that they are
to make terms for themselves, is of the utmost importance. I can-
not help felicitating myself in the belief that troops may be spared
from the Northward, as the Campaign must be near over, and as
the return of General Sullivan may be shortly expected ; and that
they will be sent, especially as the objection to it formerly made,
of a long march, &c, are now obviated; for part of Count
D'Estaing's fleet being inCheseapeake Bay, which with our frigates
vill be a Sufficient cover to their passage by water, and will give
us speedy and certain reinforcements. If the troops come by
■water I have to request that the Board of War be directed to send
on with them the Articles mentioned in the enclosed List. A
duplicate I have sent to them, for we have failed to get them from
the West Indias.

Some of the vessels were taken and others carried to a bad mar-
ket. For a more minute state of matters in this Department, and
for a fuller representation of the miseries that await us without
prompt reinforcements, I beg leave to refer you to Colonel Laurens,
from whose knowledge in war and critical observation you may
expect the most perfect intelligence.

I have the honor to be, &c,

B. LINCOLN.

5th. Whether the marine arrangement was such as best to
answer the purposes intended by Congress in sending the frigates
to Charlestown ?

It was the general, if not universal, opinion that armed ships
lying before the bar of Charlestown would effectually secure its
pass, and it was some time after the arrival of the ships before I
had even an intimation that to occupy a station near the bar
-would be attended with hazard ; on a suggestion of this kind, I
wrote the following letter to Commodore Whipple:

Head Quarters, Charles- )
town, Jany. 30th, 1780. f
Dr. Sir :
By your instructions you will observe that you were sent here
•with the frigates under your command as a protection to this part

STATE RECORDS.

of the United States; & I have no doubt of your zeal and that of
the officers in the common cause, or of your utmost exertions for
the defence of this State.

Your duty will be, if possible, to prevent the enemy from enter-
ing the harbour; if that should be impracticable, you will in the
next place oppose them at Fort Moultrie. I have lately been
informed that with an easterly wind & flood tide it will be impos-
sible for a ship to lye with her broadside to the entrance of the
bar. To ascertain this matter is of importance ; you will there-
fore as early as possible have the internal part of the bar and the
adjacent shoal sounded and buoyed by some of your officers and
the best pilots you can obtain ; after that you will please, in com-
pany with the Captains of the several ships, to reconnoitre the
entrance of this harbour and see whether there is a possibility of
the ships lying in such a manner as to command the passage and
leave their station, if it should become necessary.

When you and your Captains have enquired and considered the
matter, you will be so good as to report your opinions.

I am, &c,

B, LINCOLN.
Commodore Whipple.

1136001

In answer to the above the Commodore gave me the following
letter addressed to him :
Sir:

Having considered General Lincoln's requisition to yon of the
30th ultimo, whether there is a possibility of the ships lying in
such a manner as to command the passage at the bar of Charles-
town Harbour, & leave their station if it should become necessary,
after having sounded and buoyed the entrance & made such obser-
vations as appeared to us necessary, do declare, upon due delibera-
tion, that it is in our opinion impracticable. Our reasons arc
that, when an easterly wind is blowing and the flood making in,
(such an opportunity as the enemy must embrace for this purpose,)
there will be so great a swell in Ave fathom hole as to render it
impossible for a ship to ride moored athwart, which will afford
the enemy's ships under full sail the advantage of passing us;

STATE RECORDS.

should they effect that, the Continental ships cannot possibly get
up to fort Moultrie as soon as the enemy's.

We are, &c.

Signed by Capt. Hacker & a number other

officers.

Commodore Whipple.

Notwithstanding this representation,! was so fully convinced of
the necessity and importance of the ships covering the bar, and
having no information that there was not a sufficiency of water at
all times to float them, I wrote the following letter and orders to
the Commodore :

Chaklestown, Febry. 13th, 17S0.
Db. Sir :

I have attentively read the letter from Captain Hacker and
others to you on the subject of anchoring the ships before the bar
at the entrance of this harbour. I am much obliged to you and
the Gentlemen for your attention to my request. I am fully con-
vinced that at some particular times it may be difficult, if not
impossible, to lie with the broadside of the ships to the channel,
and that there will be a risque of losing the ships, should they take
their station in and near five-fathom hole. Yet I am so fully
convinced of the probable services they will render there should
the enemy attempt to come over the bar, and the evils consequent
on their getting into this harbour, that the attempt ought to be
made, and that the measure can thereby be justified, for the safety
of this town lies in reducing the enemy's attempts on it to a
land attack. If the mouth of the harbour is left uncovered by
our ships they can, in the first place, bring in their frigates and
cover their heavier ships while they lighten and get them over
the bar. This may be at a time when it may be impossible, if our
ships are within fort Moultrie, to get down to annoy them. If,
Sir, the ships should take post to act in conjunction with Fort
Moultrie, which would greatly support it, & while that remained
in our possession the enemy might be checked in their progress
to town. But if the Enemy should, by works on Haddrell's point,
reduce that fort, you must immediately leave your station before
it; and should you be followed by the ships which maybe got over
the bar, you must be driven into the rivers and the front of the

STATE RECORDS. 37

town left uncovered. From these considerations I am induced
to request that you, so soon as possible, station the Providence,
Boston, Bricole & Truite, with such gallies as in your opinion may
be serviceable, near the bar, so as best to command the entrance
of it.

I wish to have the pleasure of seeing you this morning.
I am, &c,

B. LINCOLN.
Commodore Whipple.

The weather prevented the ships falling down immediately, and
on an examination the Commodore found and reported to me that
there was not a sufficient depth of water for the ships to lye so
near the bar as to command the entrance of h. This was so new
an idea, and, if true, the ships would be rendered of so much less
use than was expected, that I called upon the sea officers, with the
Pilots, to make the most critical examination and report.

Headquarters, Charles Town, Feby. 26, 1780.
Sir :

I find by some observations I made yesterday, difficulties with
respect to the frigates under your command anchoring near the
bar which, from the representations made to me, I did not expect.
As the design of your being sent to this Department was, if possi-
ble, to cover the bar of this harbour, a measure highly necessary,
therefore an attempt to do it should be made, but on the fullest
evidence of its impracticability.

I have therefore to request that you will, as soon as may be,
report to me the depth of water in the channel, from the bar to
what is called five-fathom hole, and what distance that is from
the bar ; whether in that distance there is any place where your
ships can anchor in a suitable depth of water, if any place, how
fat from the bar, whether there you can cover it, and whether
at this station you can he annoyed by batteries from the shore,
whether a battery can be thrown up by us, so as to cover the ships,
& the ships so cover that as to secure a retreat of the Garrison if
it should become necessary to bring off the Garrison.

[f yuu cannot anchor bo as to cover the bar, you will please
to give me your opinion where you can lie so as to secure this
town from an attack by sea, and best answer the purposes ofyouJ

STATE RECORDS.

being sent here, and the views of Congress, and the reasons
for such an opinion. In this matter yon will please to consult
the Captains of the several ships and the pilots of this harbour.
You will keep your present station, or one near thereto, until you
report, unless an opportunity should offer to act offensively against
the enemy, as your own safety should make it necessary for you
to remove ; in either case you will judge.

I am, &c,

B. LINCOLN.
Commodore Whipple.

I thought the importance of anchoring the ships near the bar,
so as to cover it, of such importance that, although I could not
doubt but from the officers and pilots I should have a just and
impartial representation, yet I did not content myself without
spending two days in a boat on this business.

When it was found impracticable for the ships to anchor as was
first expected, & that they could not lye in five-fathom hole,
beyond reach of batteries from the shore, it was determined that
they ought to take such, station as to act in conjunction with Fort
Moultrie, as will appear by the following report, the truth of
which was verified by my own observation :

Pokt of Charlestown, February 27, 1780.
Hond. Sir :

Yours of yesterday we have received, and after having consid-
ered and attended to the several requisitions therein contained,
beg leave to return the following answer :

At low water there is eleven feet from the bar to live-fathom
hole. Five-fathom hole is three miles from the bar, where you
will have three fathoms at low water. They cannot be anchored
until they are at that distance from the bar. In the place where
the ships can be anchored the bar cannot be covered or annoyed.

Off the North breaker-head, where the ships can be anchored,
to moor them, that they might swing in safety, they will lay
within one mile ite half of the shore.

If an}' batteries are thrown up to act in conjunction with the

STATE RECORDS. 39

ships, and the enemy's force should be so much superior as to cause
a retreat to be necessary, it will be impossible for us to cover or
take them off.

Our opinion is that the ships can do more effectual service for
the defense and security of the town to act in conjunction with
Fort Moultrie, which, we think, will best answer the purposes of
the ships being sent here, and consequently of the views of Con-
gress.

Our reasons are that the channel is so narrow between the-fort
& the middle ground that they may be moored so as to rake the
channel and prevent the enemy's troops being landed to annoy
the fort.

The enemy, we apprehend, may be prevented from Bounding
& buoying the bar by the Brig General Lincoln, the State Brig
Notre Dame, and other small vessels that may be occasionally
employed for that purpose.

"VVe are, &c.
(Signed by four Captains and five Pilots.)

General Lincoln.

In consequence of the above report, the ships were removed to
act in conjunction with Fort Moultrie, and an attempt was made
to obstruct the channel in front thereof but from the depth of
water, the width of the channel & the rapidity of the tide, the
attempt proved abortive.

On the enemy's getting over the bar a force far superior to what
was expected, and with which our ships could by no means cope,
and from a consideration that if the enemy should pass the fort
and our ships, with a leading wind & a flood tide, and anchor to
the leeward of them, it would have been impossible for them to
have got out of reach of the enemy's guns, or he protected by tin'
fort, we were obliged to abandon the former idea of acting in
conjunction with Fort Moultrie, and to adopt a new one. After
I received an answer to the following questions, which were pro-
posed to the Captains Whipple, Hacker. Rathburne, Tucker,
Simpson, Lockwood & Pyne :

1st. Whether, in their opinion, the obstructions which are now
attempted to be laid across the channel in front of Fort Moultrie,
if effected, will be sufficient to check the progress of the enemy's

STATE RECORDS.

ships now in this harbor, if they should attempt to pass them
under the advantages of a leading wind and flood tide?

2d. If the enemy should pass the Fort and the American ships,
under the circumstances aforesaid, and should anchor to leeward
of them, whether the fort could act in conjunction with aud sup-
port our ships ? If it cannot, whether they can change their sta-
tion so as to escape the enemy's fire i

3rd. Whether they think, from the present situation aud force
of the enemy, and the state of Charlestown, our ships can take a
station in which they can probably render more essential services
thau iti their present, and where?

Answer to the first question :

We are- fully of opinion that the present, or even any obstruc-
tions we can throw in the way of the enemy, will be insufficient
to check such heavy ships as the enemy now have in the harbor.

Ans. to the 2d Q.:

Should the enemy pass us they can anchor to leeward of us, and
we cannot be protected by Fort Moultrie, nor shall we be able to
run our ships out of the way.

A. to the 3rd Q.:

That we are also of opinion that we ought to leave our present
station.

We beg leave to observe that when we recommended this as a
suitable station it was at a time when the enemy's force off the
bar did not exceed half what they now have in the harbour, and
when we had every assurance that a ship larger than fifty guns
could not be got over the bar.

Signed by Captain Whipple and all the others
before mentioned.

Hereon I was induced to order the ships up to town, dismantle the
heaviest of them, strengthen our batteries with their guns & man
the forts with the seamen ; and we attempted to incumber the
channel between the town & Shute's folly, as before mentioned.

I have been thus particular under this head, because the public
supposed that the ships could be so stationed as to command the
bar, and from this consideration I suppose Congress were induced
to send them to South Carolina.

Oth. Whether the necessary exertions were made to compleat
the works & fortifications of the town ?

STATE RECORDS.

The State of South Carolina was early & repeatedly called upon
to bring in their blacks to finish the works, for little progress
therein could be expected from our troops, whose number were
too inconsiderable to promise much ; they were, however, the
greatest part of their time on duty. To show how far I interested
myself in this business, I beg leave to insert the depositions of W.
Cannon & W. Gamble on this head. I should have omitted them
in this letter could I have been sure that in any other way I should
have had an opportunity of laying them before you ; but of this I
cannot be certain. You will, therefore, I trust, excuse it.

THE DECLARATION OF JAMES CANNON.

Philadelphia, June 28, 1780.

I resided in Charlestown from the 5th day of Jany., 1778, to the
9th of April, 1780. On the evening of the last mentioned day,
left it with General Lincoln's despatches ; and having the honor of
being connected with some of the first men in office in the State
of So. Carolina, and frequently in the General's family while his
quarters were in Charlestown, I declare

That I had frequent opportunities of knowing the sentiments
of the best-informed on the General's conduct while commanding
in the Southern Department, and that I uniformly found the
ideas of his merit and abilities to rise in proportion to the degree
of information ;

That I have been witness to his pressing with much earnestness
the certainty of an intended invasion, and the necessity of strenu-
ous and timely exertions to provide against it ;

That he lost no time in fortifying Charlestown, as well as the
means put in his power and the skill of the engineer could accom-
plish it ;

That he took every step which prudence, ability .and zeal for
the safety of the town could inspire to call forth the utmost
exertions of the State at large, and town in particular, to put it
into the best state of defense, even turning out himself, not only
to assist on the works, but to set an example of emulation, that
none might think it beneath him to give his assistance, but that
all ought to turn out when they saw their Commander in Chief
submit to the common duties of fatigue men to push on the works ;
And that this was not only the exertion of an hour to excite emu-
lation, but his constant practice, going out witli the foremost in

42 STATE RECORDS.

the morning and returning with the last in the evening, nntill the
near approach of the enemy called him to other duties ;

That I have been constantly, and at all times in the day, round
the works from the time of the enemy's landing on James Island,
and don't recollect ever to have been for an hour at any one part
of them without seeing the General'ride round for the purpose of
viewing them, and by his presence inspiring the fatigue men with
ardour and industry ; And that it is my opinion that no man
could have applied himself with more diligence it activity to put
the place into the best possible state of defence ; nor would it have
been easy for any man to have done as much, and extremely diffi-
cult to have done more with the same means.

JAMES CANNON.

Philadelphia, ss.

Before me, Plunket Tilerson, one of the Justices, &c, personally
came Mr. James Cannon and made oath, and did depose, that the
Contents of the foregoing declarations is just and true.

Sworn the 30th day of June, 17S0.

PLUNKET TILERSON.

Philadelphia, June 30, 1780,
Being from the loth of February to the 17th of April, 1780,
when I became unfit for service by a contusion from a cannon
shot, employed as a Manager in the public works in Charlestown I
had the constant opportunity of marking General Lincoln's atten-
tion to the construction of every work necessary for the defence
of the place. By his particular orders and direction, I fortifyed
from the French Battery on Gibbes wharf to the Sugar house
Battery on Savage's Green, on the Adiley river side of the town,
cutting a wet ditch 12 feet wide with a regular Glacis and a
range of oblique pickets in front of the old line. I also by his
orders cut the Marsh from Ferguson's beach to within about two
hundred yards of Cummings Point Battery, rendering it impossi-
ble for Boats at high water, and to infantry when dry, by a drain
and bank. Next, at his command, I stopped a Creek 7 feet deep
in front of our lines on the left, the whole completed under his
sole inspection.

I was concerned in every work erected or repaired to the 7th
of April, In which time the General was always one of the first at,

STATE RECORDS. 43

and last from, the works, giving directions to the overseers and
encouraging the labourers ; and in my opinion no man could have
been more diligent in fortifying, more vigilant, more cautious, or
have behaved with more bravery in the defence of Charlestown

than General Lincoln.

ARCHIBALD GAMBLE.

Philadelphia, ss.

Before me, Plunket Tilerson, one of the Justices, &c, came
Archibald Gamble and made oath that the contents of the within
declaration is just and true.

Sworn the 30 day of June, 1780.

PLUNKET TILERSON.

7th. Whether the defence of Charlestown was conducted with
that military spirit and determination which justice to their country
and themselves demanded of its garrison ? This is a question
delicate and important.

Charlestown is situated on a Peninsula formed by the conflux
of the Cooper & the Ashley, having field works in its rear, the
front and flanks covered by lines, batteries & marshes — the whole
extent little short of four miles.

The enemy landed the 12th of Feby. in force on the south part
of John's Island, between twenty and thirty miles from Charles-
town, with the Ashley & the Stono intervening. As I wish to
waste as little of your Excellency's time as possible, I shall say
nothing of their movements from the time of their debarcation
untill they crossed the Ashley on the 29th of March, excepting
that previous thereto they had employed themselves in erecting
works on James Island, to cover their ships, some on the main
near Wappoo as a security to their grand deposite of stores estab-
li-hed here, the stores having been transported from their ships in
Stono River.

They crossed the Ashley about two miles above the ferry,
twelve miles from the town, with the grenadiers, light troops and
two battalions of Infantry. On the 30th they appeared before
our lines and encamped about three thousand yards in front of them.
We had to lament that the state of our garrison would not admit
of a sufficient force being detached to annoy them in crossing the
river, which they could do at different places, for our whole mini-

STATE EECOKDS.

ber at this time in garrison amounted to 2,225 only, ^besides the
sailors in the batteries.

The 30th & 31st the enemy we're employed in transporting their
stores from the west to the east side of Ashley, about two miles
above our lines. In the morning of the first of April we observed
that they had broken ground in several places about 1,100 yards
in our front; their next work appeared, the morning following, on
our left, about nine hundred yards distance. The night after they
opened a third work about six hundred yards from our right. From
the third to the 10th the enemy were employed in finishing their
first parallel, their batteries thereon & mantling them, before
which we had received only a few random shots from their gallies
in the mouth of Wappoo. and from their battery near thereto. In
the evening of tbis day we received the following summons :

" Sir Henry Clinton, K. B., General and Commander in Chief of
his Majesty's forces in the Colonies, lying on the Atlantic from
Nova Scotia, &c, &c, &c, and Yice- Admiral Arbuthnot, Comman-
der in Chief of His Majesty's ships in North America, &c, &c, &c,
regretting the effusion of blood and the distresses which must now
commence, deem it consonant to humanity to warn the town &
Garrison of Charlestown of the havock & devastation with which
they are threatened from the formidable force surrounding them
by land and sea.

"An alternative is offered at this hour of saving their lives and
property contained in the town, or of abiding by the fatal conse-
quences of a cannonade and storm.

" Should the place in a fallacious security, or its commander in
a wanton indifference to the fate of its inhabitants, delay a surren-
der, or should the public stores or shipping be destroyed, the
resentment of an exasperated soldiery may intervene, but the same
mild & compassionate offer can never be renewed.

" The respective Commanders, who hereby summon the town, do
not apprehend so rash a part as further resistance will be taken,
but rather that the gates will be opened and themselves received
with a degree of confidence which will forebode further reconcili-
ation."

Head Quarters, Chs. Town, April 10, 17 80.
Gentlemen :

I have received your summons of this date. Sixty days have

STATE RECORDS.

passed since it has been known that your intentions against this
town were hostile, in which tin>e has been afforded to abandon
it, but duty and inclination point to the propriety of supporting
it to the last extremity.

I have the honour to be

Your Excellencies' humble servant,

B. LINCOLN".

The answer was such as I hope will at all times meet your
Excellency's approbation. We were left at that time without an
alternative ; an unconditional surrender was demanded. Firing
on our side was immediately commenced, to retard and annoy the
enemy in their approaches as much as possible, and so continued
until the 13th, when they opened their batteries, and a constant
fire was kept up by both parties until the 20th, at which time
their second parallel, within three hundred yards of our lines, was
completed, when terms as have before been mentioned were pro-
posed ; but being rejected, hostilities again commenced on the
21st and continued with redoubled fury. On the twenty-third
the enemy commenced the third parallel, from eighty to one hun-
dred and fifty yards from our lines ; from this to the 8th of May
they were employed in compleating it, erecting three batteries
threon and drawing the ditch opposite our right. In the morning
of the Sth I received the following letter from General Clinton :

" Circumstanced as I now am with respect to the place invested,
humanity only can induce me to lay within your reach the terms I
determined should not again be proffered.

" The fall of Fort Sullivan, the destruction ( on the 6th instant )
of what remained of your Cavalry, the critical period to which our
approaches against the town have brought us, mark this as the
term of your hopes of succour ( could you have formed any) and
as an hour beyond which resistance is temerity.

" By this last summons, therefore, I throw to your charge what-
ever vindictive severity exasperated soldiers may inflict on the
unhappy people whom you devote by persevering in a fruitless
defense.

"I shall expect your answer untill eight o'Clock, when hostilities
will commence again, unless the town, shall be surrendered, &c.t
&c, &c.

(Signed) . H. CLINTON."
" Majr. Genl. Lincoln."

STATE RECORDS.

This I laid before a Council of General & Field Officers & the
Captains of the Continental Ships. It was the view of the Coun-
cil that terms of Capitulation ought to be proposed. Terms were
accordingly sent out, but as so many of them were rejected, others
so mutilated and a qualification of them utterly denied us, hostili-
ties again commenced in the evening of the Ninth, with a more
incessant and heavy fire than ever, which continued until the
11th, when, having prior thereto received an address from the
principal inhabitants of the town and a number of the Country
militia, signifying that the terms acceded to by General Clinton,
as they related to them, were satisfactory, and desired that I would
propose my acceptance of them, and a request from the Lieuten-
ant-Governor and Council that the negotiations might be renewed
— the militia of ye Town having thrown down their arms — our
provisions, saving a little rice, being exhausted, the troops on
the lines being worn down with fatigue, having for a number of
days been obliged to lay upon the banket — our harbour closely
blocked up — completely invested by land by nine thousand men
at least, the flower of the British Army in America, besides the
large force which at all times they could draw from their marine,
and aided by a great number of blacks in all their laborious
employments, the garrison at this time, exclusive of the sailors,
but little exceeding twenty-five hundred men, part of whom had
thrown down their arms — the citizens in general discontented
and clamourous — the enemy being within twenty yards of out-
lines, and preparing to make a general assault by sea and land —
many of our cannon dismounted and others silenced from the want
of shot — a retreat being judged impracticable, and every hope of
timely succour cut off — we were induced to offer and accede to the
terms executed on the 12th. A copy of them, the several letters
and propositions that passed between Sr. Hy. Clinton & Myself
from the 10th of April to the 12th of May, I do myself the honor
to inclose.

Thus, Sir, in as concise a manner as possible, and perhaps too
much so in justness to myself, I have given to your Excellency a
state of matters relative to the defence and loss of Charlestown
ife the measures pursued by me for its safety.

Think it not, My dear General, the language of adulation when

STATE RECORDS.

I assure you that your approbation of my military conduct will
afford me the highest satisfaction and prove my justification in
the eyes of the World.

I have the honor to be, My Dr. General,

With the highest regard and esteem,

Your most obedient Servant,

B. LINCOLN.
His Excellency General Washington.
[Indorsement]

Augt. 11th, 1780.
M. Genl. Lincoln's report of his Conduct as Commander of
Charlestown.
Private.

GOV. THOMAS JEFFERSON TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Richmond, August 12, 1780.
Sir:
Frequent murders having been committed by the Cherokee
Indians of the Chickamogga towns, and some others who have
associated with them & seceded from the main body of the
nation, we directed Col. Campbell in the month of June to
raise 500 men from our Counties of Washington and Montgomery
in order to destroy those towns. He was instructed to use the
utmost attention in distinguishing the friendly from the hostile
part of the nation, and while he should chastise the latter, to
spare no assurance and protection to the former. Being informed
at the same time that a similar expedition was meditated from
your frontiers, under your authority, or by the inhabitants them-
selves, we instructed Col. Campbell to open a proper correspon-
dance for the purpose of producing a co-operation against the
common Enemy. The inclosed is an extract of a Letter I received
from him lately, which I take the liberty of transmitting to your
Excellency, because if Col. Campbell's information has been true,
it discovers a disposition in the inhabitants of Washington
County of your state to bring on a war with the friendly Chero-
kees. Without animadverting on the injustice of such a measure,
it would so much increase the difficulties with which our two

STATE RECORDS.

States have at present to contend that I thought it my duty to
communicate this to your Excellency, as, should it wear any
appearance of probability with yon, it might suggest measures for
further enquiry, and for preventing an aggression, if one should
have been meditated. Our frontier counties being jointly and
intimately interested in the transactions with the Cherokees — I
hope I shall meet your Excellency's pardon for imparting to you
any intelligence coming to my ear which may appear to threaten
their peace, and I do it the more freely, as I should myself most
thankfully receive similar communication from you of anything on
our side the line which might require the vigilance of our Govern-
ment.

I have the honour to be,

With every sentiment of esteem & respect,
Your Excellency's most obedient
And most humble Servt.,

THOS. JEFFERSON.

GOV. THOMAS JEFFERSON TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Richmond, 13th August, 17S0.
Sie :

I have received with much concern your Excellency's informa-
tion of the irregularities committed b'y the two troops of Cavalry
sent from this State.

I cannot but wish that the result of a further investigation may
prove mofe favourable to them ; but be this as it will, it is far
from our desire to stand between them and justice. It is for the
good of the geneial service that it should be fully enquired into,
and it concerns the reputation of those of them who have not
swerved from Duty to be separated by trial from their guilty
Brethren and not involved in an indiscriminate censure. Hav-
ing received information that they wanted Clothing, twelve
Horses and thirty saddles, to refit them for service, orders were
given ten days ago to supply them. The materials for their
cloathing are in hand ; their saddles are provided, except about
half a dozen. What progress is made in purchasing the deficient

STATE RECORDS.

Horses I am not informed. I think, however, on the whole, they
will be very shortly ready to obey the General's call into service.
In the mean time, should your Excellency think proper, they can
be ordered to Brunswick Court House, within this State.
I have the honour to be,

With the greatest esteem & respect,
Your Excellency's most obedt. Servt.,

THOS. JEFFERSON.
To His Excellency Gov. Nash.

GOVERNOR MARTIN TO SECRETARY OF STATE.

[B. P. R. O., Am. & W. Ind., Vol. 313, p. 347.1

Camden, South Carolina, 18th August, 1780.
Received 19th October.
My Lord :
• It is with inexpressible satisfaction that I have the Honor to
offer to your Lordship my sincerest congratulations on a victory
gained over the Rebel Army by Plis Majesty's Forces under the
command of Earl Cornwallis on the 16th inst., of which I had the
Honor and Happiness to be a Spectator, and which I am warranted
to say was in all its circumstances as glorious, compleat and criti-
cal as has been obtained by the Arms of Britain for Ages. In one
word, my Lord, it could receive no additional splendour. Every
thing was atchieved that was to be acquired by the General's
magnanimity, bravery and vigour of troops, The Enemy's Army,
of much more than three times our strength, being intirely routed
after a very sharp action of three-quarters of an hour, with the
loss of 1,500 Men Killed, Wounded and Prisoners, together with
their whole artillery, consisting of 8 pieces of Brass Ordnance,
130 Waggons, many Colours, and the greatest part of their Anns,
Ammunition, Accoutrements and Baggage. The State of our
affairs in this Country in the hour of this memorable Action was
so delicate and full of Embarrassment and difficulty as can be
imagined. From the time the Rebel Army assembled at Hills-
borough, early in June, every devise had been practised upon the
adherents of the usurpation in this Province to prepare them for
15—4

50 STATE RECORDS.

a new Revolt ; and it appears they were found very generally
prone to the Enemy's purposes as they could wish for. By the
latter end of July, or sooner, they were joining the Rebel Armies,
or arming against us more or less in all quarters of it, being,
unhappily, too well fitted to receive impression from the Rebel
Country on the score of Political obligation to us, (I am sorry to
say it). By the premature absolution of them from the Paroles
they had given to Lord Cornwallis in his march thro' the Country
by the Proclamation of Sir Henry Clinton, of the 3rd of June,
which, in their estimation, emancipated and discharged them
from the only engagement by which they were bound to His
Majesty, the dangerous Operation and Effect of this measure,
conceived in that disposition to mistaken lenity which had here-
tofore been found so utterly abortive, if not prejudicial, to our
affairs, was so obvious that it was clearly seen by every
man of the commonest reflection in this Army, and was
accordingly lamented, and I may truly add generally repro-
bated. It cannot be doubted, at the same time, that Sir
Henry Clinton was influenced in this Act by notions of
generosity to which this People had no corresponding feel-
ings; they felt, on the contrary, the Spirit of Rebellion
enfranchised by this fresh instance of liberality that ought to have
been a new bond of their attachment, and if accordingly diffused
itself, over the whole Country. Two considerable Bodies of
Militia under Generals Sumpter and Rutherford very soon men-
aced the Cordon we had formed in our Front from Savannah to
Pedee River, and which Sumpter afterwards attacked at the two
Points of Rocky Mount and Hanging Rocks, failing in both
attempts thro1 the judicious and timely precautions of Lord
Rawdon, who commanded the Army in the Absence of Lord
Cornwallis at Charlestown, and with ability of which I cannot
speak in too high terms of admiration.

While these Corps were thus employed to amuse us, the main
body of the Enemy's army marched by the North Carolina Mili-
tia under Caswell, crossed the Pedee about the 1st or 2nd Inst.,
by their approach spreading such Terror and Dismay among the
well affected as intimidated all the ordinary as well as extraordi-
nary Spies employed by Lord Rawdon to a degree so great that
every Channel of Intelligence failed him, a Circumstance I could

STATE RECORDS.

have scarcely believed if I had not been witness to the fact, con-
sidering the number of our Friends in North Carolina interested
to hold us advised of the Enemy's Motions and Lord Rawdon's
unremitting Pains and assiduity in procuring Information from
all quarters thro1 the whole course of his command, during the
greater part of which I lived with him honoured with bis entire
Confidence and acquainted with all .his Measures.

The 71st Reg., which had occupied the Post at the Cheraw Hill
for some time, becoming then very sickly, had been drawn back
to the East Branch of Lynche's Creek by Lord Rawdon, and very
lately joined by the 33rd Reg. From this time Intelligence was
received there from day to day of the Advance of a Body of the
Enemies' Militia under Caswell by very slow movements. The
9th Inst., on receipt of some advice of the Enemy's approach that
was not intirely satisfactory, I accompanied Lord Rawdon to the
Post on Lynche's Creek, where, hearing that Caswell, with his
Militia Corps, was within 13 Miles of us, his Lordship deter-
mined to attack him that night or early in the morning. In a
short space of time, while the necessary arrangements were mak-
ing for this Purpose, a man arrived from North Carolina who had
been two days before in the Enemy's Camp, and now gave us the
Information of the Movement of the Main Body of their Army
towards us, under the command of General Gates, and that he
was then only 26 miles in our Front, Caswell's Corps of Militia
being advanced as we had heard before. Having obtained tin's
certain Intelligence of the Enemy's Motions, and of their being in
great Force, it became necessary now to collect our little Army,
distributed on the right of the Cordon above mentioned, and to
cover our magazines at Camden and the Communication by the
Santee to Charles Town as fan1 as might be possible. In this
design Lord Rawdon immediately put the Army in March to fall
back 12 Miles and to take Post behind the West Branch of Lyn he's
Creek. The Volunteers of Ireland, who lay upon the communi-
cation to Camden on the East side of it, having moved forward
the same morning and joined the 33rd and 71st Reg.,
Orders were at the same time dispatched to the Troops
in Post at Hanging Rock to fall back about sixteen
Miles nearer to the Village of Camden and to take a
strong position parallel to us at Rugeley's Mills, on the road

52 STATE RECORDS.

leading thence to Charlotte and Salisbury. The Welch Fuzileers
and Cavalry from Camden, in consequence of Orders, joined us
early in the morning of the 8th on our new Ground with three
pieces of Artillery. On the 9th, soon after day break, a Party of
the Enemy's Cavalry charged a small picqnet of ours advanced
beyond the Creek and obliged it to retire, a Cornet commanding
it being made prisoner. On reconnoitering the ground in our
Rear this day Lord Rawdon found a much better position might
be taken at the distance of 3 miles nearer Camden, and it was
hoped by our movement to it the Enemy might be tempted to
cross the West Branch of Lynche's Creek to occupy the Ground we
then lay upon, in which case they would afford an Opportunity
to attack them with advantage. This move, however, did not
induce Mr. Gates to follow us. He took up his ground on the
East side of t-he Creek. On the 10th in the morning he shewd a
very few of his Cavalry and Militia in our Front, who, after
exchanging some shot with the Sentries of our Piquet, retired.
We remained in the position we took in the evening of the 9th,
behind the Beaver Dam Creek, until four o'clock in the afternoon
of the 12th, expecting from day to day the attack of the Enemy,
whose main body lay within 3 miles of us, and their advanced
Picqnets of mounted Militia close to ours without an act of hos-
tility. The Troops at Rugely's Mills had been directed in the
evening of the 11th to fall back within four miles of Camden, or
to that place, if the Commanding Officer there should think it
necessary, Lord Rawdon having formed the design of falling back
this day with the Main Body to ground about 6 miles distant
from Camden. The moment before the Army was to begin its-
March the Cavalry, under the command of Lieut. Col. Tarle-
ton, being ordered to scour the ground in our Front, fell in with
2 Deserters from the Enemy coming in to us, whose Intelligence
was that their Army had marched very early that morning to
their right to the distance of 13 miles. This Information naturally
begot apprehensions in Lord Rawdon for Camden, and the Army
was accordingly instantly put in motion. His Lordship, whom I
had the honor to attend, hastened with all the Cavalry towards
that place, in hopes to anticipate the Enemy, aud to succour it if
he should have turned to his left and taken that Route. We
arrived here between 7 & 8 o'clock in the evening, and the Infan-

STATE RECORDS.

try and the Artillery joined us at about .12 at night, making
every thing secure for the present at this point, where we found the
Troops from Hanging Rock, the Enemy, according to our Intel-
ligence, being at Rugely's Mill, 12 Miles distant from Camden.
On the 13th our Accounts of the Enemy during the day were
various, but it was ascertained that he was not the preceding Day
at Rugeley's. Lord Rawdon, with his usual promptitude and
decision, determined, as soon as Mr. Gates should take any Posi-
tion within his reach in one day's march, to attack him as a meas-
ure not only of Military Expediency and Propriety but of indis-
pensible necessity, as Mr. Gates, being left for any time at leisure
to take his measures, from t e number of his army, of the disposi-
tion of the Country in his favour, would find it easy to cut off our
communications. That must be fatal to us at a time we depended
upon it for our daily subsistance, it having been yet impossible
to form any Magazine of Provisions here.

Lord Rawdon having now greatly surmounted a scene as preg-
nant with difficulty and Embarrassment as can be imagined, (in
the conduct of a very extended defencive plan,) with a very small
Army, exceedingly reduced and daily diminishing by sickness,
had at this period, with unwearied diligence and attention and
firmness, and address above all praise, wound up every thing most
opportunely and happily to the great point of decision. He had
Lord Cornwailis's arrival in anxious expectation every moment,
decided at the same time on the part he was to take in all events,
possessing himself entirely and inspiring every Man with that
confidence which he derived from the steady countenance of the
Troops.

On the 11th, about 4 o'clock in the morning, Lord Cornwallis,
after a most expeditious and painful journey, joined us here, to
the great joy of Lord Rawdon and the whole Army. His Lord-
ship, whose mind and whose attention comprehends every object,
was fully Master of the Crisis of our Affairs, and instantly dis-
cerned that an immediate meeting with the Enemy could alone
retrieve them. He made his preparations for it accordingly, the
Corps of Light Infantry from 96 joining him this morning in a
very weak state.

Between 9 & 10 in the evening of the loth, His Lordship
moved from hence with his little gallant Army towards the

STATE RECORDS.

Enemy, who, by his Intelligence, was now certainly at Rugely's
Mills. About 2 o'clock in the morning of the 16th, our army
being on the March in Column, the advanced guard was fired
upon and fell back on the 33rd Reg., which steadily supported it
and returned the Enemy's Eire. The Column halted, the Army
was formed with all Expedition. The firing ceased. Two
Deserters from the Enemy now informed Lord Cornwallis that
their whole army had marched at 10 o'clock the night before with
design to attack him at Camden, and was now formed in two
Lines in his Front and very near him, being more than 6,000
strong, after having detached a considerable Corps under Sump-
ter, with two pieces of Cannon, to cross the Wateree and pass
down its West Bank to co-operate with the Main Body in the
meditated attack on Camden, and in the mean time to straiten it
by interrupting our Communications with the Country. In this
position the army lay til day break, at which time the Enemy
fired ■a gun that we could discern to be in the Road, nearly oppo-
site the center of our Line, and at the distance of about 400
yards. A thick fog impending, and the dawn not yet fair, the
Enemy was discovered advancing in a heavy Column and very
near to the right of our Line, On which Lord Cornwallis ordered
with the utmost promptitude the necessary change of Disposition,
and that the Enemy should be instantly attacked in that Point,
which was executed in the moment with equal vigour and alacrity
on the part of the Troops, who performed every thing that can be
expected of Men and of Soldiers.

As a Spectator of the Action merely I am not intitled or quali-
fied to give a detail of it. If I was, it would be unnecessary, as
your Lordship will have it perfectly from Lord Cornwallis. His
presence, activity and vigour every where during the whole
course of it, that animated the Troops to invincible Exertions,
made him Master of each circumstance attending it, and I shall
therefore beg leave to refer your Lordship for particulars to the
better information of the Xoble Geueral who greatly won this
glorious day, which, beyond doubt or comparison, is, in all its cir-
cumstances, infinitely the most brilliant of the War. It is conse-
quential to the Nation, my Lord, in proportion to the importance
of America to Great Britain, for her cause and Interests on this
continent depending, as I conceive, absolutely on the issue < f

STATE RECORDS.

this action, may be fairly said to be rescued, saved, redeemed and
restored to promising condition by the magnanimity and conduct
of Lord Oornwallis, which, in one critical hour, have dispatched
a prospect more gloomy than I have yet seen thro' the whole
course of the American War.

I have the satisfaction to acquaint your Lordship that we have
had great proof and manifestation of the Loyalty of the North
Carolinas in consequence of some premature and unseasonable
risings among them (which have taken place in spite of the most
prudent measures of Lord Oornwallis to prevent them, and in
which 'they have been severely checked by the Rebels in some
instances); not less than 1,400 of them have joined different parts
of this army. At one time near S00 men, under Mr. Bryan of
Rowan County, joined our Troops at the Cheraws, after eluding
the Enemy with a good deal of address. From all I have seen &
have been able to gather concerning that country I have great
reason to believe that all my Representations of the Fidelity of
His Majesty's subjects there at the beginning of the Rebellion
(which I am apprehensive were considered as over sanguine and
deceitful in that day) will be fully justified by their zeal and
numbers whenever this army enters that Country.
I have the honor to be, &c,

JOS. MARTIN.

20th August, 1780. P. S. I have the great satisfaction, before'
I close my letter, to find new occasion to congratulate your Lord-
ship on the success of His Majesty's arms. Col. Tarleton,
detached after the action of the 16th with the Legion of Light
Infantry in quest of Sumpter, is just returned, and has reported to
Lord Oornwallis that he came up with, surprised, and entirely
runted that daring rebel at the head of a corps of J00 men near
the Catawba River in the afternoon of the 18th Inst., leaving 150
uf them upon the Field, taking his Artillery, consisting of 2 Brass
3 Pounders, His Waggons, Baggage, and 300 Prisoners, besides
rescuing 250 of our People made prisoners by the Enemy. This
well-conducted Enterprise would separately and in itself deserve
to be considered as a very important service, and reflects the
highest honor and glory upon Col. Tarleton, who so ably and
gallantly conducted it ; but when it is viewed as a sequel to the

56 STATE RECORDS.

great, signal and decisive victory of the 16th, it must be allowed
to be a glorious consumation of that brilliant day's achieve-
ments.

HOS. WHITMEL HILL TO DR. BURKE.

Philadelphia, August 20th, 1780.
Dr. Mr. Burke.
Sir:
Your favours of 18th of June and 1st of July have reached
rne, and am sorry for yonr misfortune of foundering in a
Marsh, but hope you have met with no other Injuries on your jour-
ney. I now write you, supposing you to be devoted to Mars, and
at Jhe head of some victorious Party warm in pursuit of their fugi-
tive Enemies. This opinion is grounded ou Intelligence rec'd at
this place two days past, by a Flag of Truce in 8 days from Charles
Town, who assert that the curr't Report of the Day at Charles
Town is that our Army has gained very decisive advantages in
several Actions they have had with the British, and that they are
retiring with all possible speed to Charles Town. If this be true,
I hope the chastisement the So. Carolinians have rec'd from their
new Masters will only have a tendency to make Soldiers of them,
and oblige them to make that resistance as becomes every Ameri-
can in the present Contest; I hope, too, that our distrest Militia,
who have been obliged to rescue that Country from the Dominion
of Britain, will claim to themselves some compensation for their
Services, which compensation they will seize on and bring home
to their ruined Families. This plundering I should not generally
encourage, but in the present instance I think it justifiable, and
wish from my heart it may be put into Execution. I observe
what you say relative to the supplies being called from Virginia,
and the cause you suppose to be the occasion of such a blunder,
(viz.,) the Committee at Camp; this Committee is at length dis-
solved, as Experience convinced Congress that they daily engaged
them in Quarrels with the Army instead of correcting any of the
Abuses they were intended to inspect; they brought about the res-
ignation of Genl. Green as Q. M. General, which Resignation was'
accompanied with a disrespectful Letter to Congress, and was very

STATE RECORDS.

near bringing about his total Dismission. T. Pickering is appoint-
ed to fill his place. How the Department will be conducted in
future we cannot say, but have been told by the Committee at
Camp that if Genl. Green was dismissed our Army must immedi-
ately disband. Congress have for once had firmness enough to
persist. What Evils may ensue we cannot tell ; as yet we have expe-
rienced no uncommon one. Our Finances are much in the situa-
tion you left them ; for a few Days we have a few thousands in the
Treasury, but it is as suddenly exhausted. However, we are in daily
expectation of the new Emissions being bro't from the Eastern
States to the Treasury. How they will circulate at par wt. Spe-
cie when the present Continental bills are cast at 75 for one, I leave
you to guess. The States have all adopted the plan, except the
three Southern ones, and I suppose on the next meeting of our
Assembly they will come into it. Congress has a few days past
rec'd dispatches from Mr. Jay, as late as 27th May, in which he
is very particular & satisfactory. He gives us room to hope that
our Draughts on him will be answered, but informs us that
they call on him to contract for Repayment in some special man-
ner, for which purpose he calls on us for particular Instructions.
He is informed by the Spanish Minister that his Master is partic-
ularly determined with respect to the Navigation of Mississippi &
wishes to limit our western Boundary far short of that River. In
this he urges special Instructions, which he is determined to act
by literally. The Minister hopes it may be possible to influence
his Master to grant the navigation of the River wt. certain restric-
tions as to Contraband Articles, &c, but this is matter of'doubt.
He informs us that no Treaty can effectually take place till these
matters are more fully explained by Congress. He mentions that
the Division that prevailed in Congress soon after he came to the
chair had reached that Court, and had tended much to lessen the
reputation of Congress; that the people of that country are gener-
ally averse to the Americans, not believing it possible that the
Roman Catholic Religion was ever tolerated in America, much
less placed equal to any other Sectary, but that he believed the
Ministry were well attached to the Cause. The aid expected from
France when you left us arrived at Rhode Island 12th July, con-
sisting of 8ships of the Line & 4 Frigates, with 5,000 Men onboard.
A few Days after Admiral Graves arrived at N. V. wt. •! ships

STATE RECORDS.

of the Line, and on being joined by Admiral Arbnthnot wt. the
ships of war at N. Y. proceeded to block up the French Fleet in
R. Island, which they have effected, and for the present suspend
the intended operations against N. Y. However, we have daily
expectation of the arrival of a 2nd Aid of ships & Men from
France, so as to give us a decided Superiority by Sea. Should no
accident befal this Aid, we make no doubt of effecting the Reduc-
tion of N. Y. before the Campaign is closed.

Gen. "Washington's Army at this time consists of more than
25,000 Men, so that, could we obtain the Superiority by Sea, I
believe the business would be easily settled.

Congress has ordered the Virg. Troops, as fast as completed, to
join the Southern Army, ami we have been fortunate enough to
procure Bills of Exchange for 100,000 Dollars in Specie, to be
sent to the aid of the Military chest in the Southern Department.
This is all we can hope for at the present; in fact, they appear very
averse to granting Aid to us, so that we must rely greatly on our
own Resources.

Miss Hart enjoys a good share of Health, but seems much De-
jected since your Departure, and wishes to return home. I encour-
aged her to persist in her Education, particularly her Mustek. I
believe Mrs. Bordeau is rather too strict with yr. Young Ladies
is the principal reason of her uneasiness; I shall supply her occa-
sionally with pocket money, and have her to see Mrs. Jones and
Mrs. Hill frequently, as we are now become Housekeepers, finding
it not so agreeable at Mrs Jones' as we could wish. I have to
solicit your return to this place by the 1st. of Nov., or if you
decline it, urge Mr. Sharpe to be here by that time, as there is an
absolute necessity for my leaving this by the 10th of that month
to return home. Mr. Jones and Lady, Mrs. Hill and self join in
Compts. to Mrs. Burke and your self,

And am, Dr. Sir,

Yr. most sincerely,

WHIT. HILL.

STATE RECORDS.

COL. ALEX. MARTIN AND THOS. BENBURY TO GOV. NASH.

Hillsborough, August 23d, 1TS0.
To His Excellency Abner Nash. Esquire, Captain General, Gov-
ernor, itc.,-ttc.
Sir:

In answer to your Excellency's Message of this Day, we the
Members Convened, beg leave to hint to your Excellency as our
private Sentiments the following Important Objects:

First. That we advise your Excellency to call out from such
Districts it Counties such a Body of the Militia, not exceeding
one half, to be proportioned as you think necessary, & that they
march immediately, by the shortest & most convenient route, to
join Genl. Caswell, or to any other post you shall please to
appoint ; their serving three months, to commence from their
rendezvous at Head Quarters, or such post as may be Directed,'
unless sooner disbanded, shall be recommended to the General
Assembly as a Tour of Duty.

We further advise your Excellency to order the Commanding
Officers of the several Counties out of which yon may order the
Militia to appoint Contractors or Commissioners to provide pro-
visions, spirits it other necessaries for the use of the Militia to be
called into service, & the Members here present engage their Faith
and Honor to use their Influence in the General Assembly that an
adequate, full and ample satisfaction be made for the same, and
that Col. Long be directed to immediately purchase, or in case of
refusal to impress, all the Iron pots and Kettles now at Wilcox's
Iron works it forward them immediately to Camp.

That your Excellency be requested to issue a Proclamation
requiring all Deserters & Refugees belonging to this State to
repair to Head Quarters, it that the Commanding Officers of the
respective Counties exert themselves in carrying the purport of
such proclamation into Effect in apprehending it forwarding such
persons immediately to Head Quarters.

"We shall continue a few days at this place for the purpose of
forming an Assembly, in which Time we will gladly and cheer-
fully advise with your Excellency in any matter that may tend to
the Defence of the State.

In the present Critical Conjuncture we submit to your

STATE RECORDS.

Excelly's prudence all other matters respecting the Defence of this
State.

By order & in behalf of the Members present,

ALEX MARTIN.

THOS. BENBURY.

GOV. ABNER NASH TO DELEGATES IN CONGRESS.

[North Carolina State Papers, 1776-1788, Book No. 72, Page 97.]
Hillsboeough, August the 23d, 1780.
Letter from Gov. Abner Nash to the N. C. Delegates in the Con-
tinental Congress. Extract.

Gentlemen :
Since our late defeat near Camden, I delayed writing to you
till I could give you some certain account of that unhappy affair,
ami of its effects. Genl. Gates, I presume, lias acquainted Con-
gress of the total loss of the Artillery & Baggage, and of most of
the muskets that were in the hands of the Militia; these, except
one North Carolina Militia Regiment, commanded on the occa-
sion by Col. Dixon of the Regulars, behaved in the most shame-
ful manner. They were drawn up in close order, two deep; the
Enemy who opposed them, from a defect in numbers, were only a
single file five feet apart, yet the Militia, tho' so much superior in
numbers, gave way on the first fire, and fled with the utmost
precipitation, notwithstanding every endeavour of their officers to
keep them to the charge. I cannot as yet learn what particular
Corps fled first; however, the field was soon cleared of all our
Army, except the Regulars and the Militia Regiment I men-
tioned, who bravely stood and pushed bayonets to the last.

With the highest respect and most sincere esteem, I am, Gen-
tlemen,

Your Obedt. & very Hble. Serv't,

A. NASH.

STATE RECORDS.

WALTER GIBSON TO HON. JOS. LEECH.

Wednesday Evening, Aug. 20th, 1780.

To the Honble J. L. Leich, Esqr.
Sib:

The following Memorandum I beg you to look over when you
are writing to Gen. Lillington :

1st, advise him of the two different sums I have drawn from the
Treasury, making the distinction for what has been drawn for the
Department of New Hanover, 8 rgt., 50 M. pounds, and the 10
Thousand for the Brigade now preparing to march to the South.
I'm conscious.it would give the Genl. particular satisfaction to
have from under your hand the particulars with respect to the
arrival of the Marquis of Bretigny, and with regard to the French
and Spanish fleet, supposed to be intended for Jamaica; likewise
the intelligence from the Flag with the prisoners, the intelligence
that Mr. Crstn. Prill has brought from our friends in So. Caro-
lina. I would be glad you would mention your approbation of
allowing this Brigade the same allowance of Liquors as was allowed
to the 8,000 which composed the two former draughts. I hope
you'll likewise give instructions for the proper mode of obtaining
the warrants for the above sums, that the matter may be adjusted
with regularity. Your own kind condescension is the reason I have
taken the liberty to present you with these Minutes, which you'll
observe as you see proper.

I am, Sir,

With all due regard,

Your obdt. humble servt.,

WALTER GIBSON.

DOCTOR HUGH WILLIAMSON TO DOCTOR HAY.

(Extract of Letter from Doct. Williamson to Doct. Hay, the Brit-
ish Physician Genl., who is also called Inspector of Rebel Hos-
pitals.)

Cambden, 24th August, 1780.
Sir:
" The Articles you was so kind as to order have not been

•62 STATE RECORDS.

received. Our Hospital patients are near 250, many of them dan-
gerously Wounded. They are lodged in sis small wards, without
straw or Covering. Two of them have not any Cloaths besides a
Shirt and pair of trowsers. In the six Wards they have only Ismail
Kettles, and no Canteen, Dish, or Cup, or other Utensil. We
have hardly any Medicine, not an ounce of Lint, Tow, or Diges-
tine; not a single Bandage or Poultice Cloath, nor an ounce of
meal to be used for Poultices. In a word, nothing is left for qs
but the painful Circumstance of viewing wretches who must soon
perish if not soon relieved."

DOCTOR HUGH WILLIAMSON TO MAJOR ENGLAND.

(Extract of Letter from Doct. Williamson to Major England,
Adjutant General.)

Cambden, 30th August, 1780.
" I presume that Lord Cornwallis is informed that of the N.
Carolina Prisoners lately sent to Charles Town, who I apprehend are
from 3 to 400, hardly a single Man has had the small Pox. There
is, I presume, the utmost danger of those Men taking the Disease
in the Natural way, unless they are inoculated. Be so kind as to
inform me whether Lord Cornwallis is willing those Troops should
be inoculated, and by whom he wishes it should be done. You
■will excuse the mention I have made of this subject, but having
the chief Medical Care of the Troops of that State, I conceive it
is my duty."

(Extract from Answer from Major Despond.)

Cambden, Sept. 1, 17S0.
Sir :
" I have Lord Cornwallis's orders to acquaint you that, with
respect to the American prisoners sent to Charles Town being
inoculated, his Lordship will give proper orders."

STATE RECORDS.

COLO. GEO. HICKS TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Deep Rivee, Ramsay's Mill, 24th August, 17S0.
Sir :
Capt. Ramsay will Deliver to your order Twenty-one British
Prisoners, which I have this Day delivered to him to Convey to
Hillsborough. Those prisoners were part of one hundred & three
that was taken in flats on the River P. D., on their Passage from
the Cheraw Hill to George Town, part of which was sent to
Hillsborough by Capt. Arnold, and part was so sickly that they
were not able to march, and was left at Long Bluff Gaol in
Cheraw District, South Carolina (which I am afraid is released).
Those twenty-one is part of thirty-nine that was Intended to be
sent by Capt. Tho's, but on hearing the unhappy Defeat of Genl.-
Gates, his Guard left him, and he gave them into the charge of
Col. Jarvis; but they not being able to march so fast as his men
Retreated, he was under the Necessity of leaving them on the
Rout near Coles Bridge, at which place I came up with them and
took them into my charge.

I am, Sir, Your Excellency's most

Obedient, and most Humble Servt.,

GEO. HICKS, Colo, of the Cheraw District,

S. Carolina.

COLO. BENJAMIN HAWKINS TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Aug. 2±, 1780.
Dear Sir :

We have had the unfortunate defeat of our Army near Camden
too well confirmed to admit a doubt to the contrary. It is also
reported and believed that we have !<>^t all our Waggons and
Baggage.

I have in consequence, thought proper to have a list taken of
all the waggons in this County and the Vicinity of it, and shall
immediately send round to all the principal farmers, requesting
them to furnish their proportion of Horses for the same. 1 shall
send the proportion round to them and have a return by Monday.

This I conclude to be the only practicable method in our

64 STATE RECORDS.

present situation. I believe we are all whigs, and I hope we
shall not complain at complying with any requisition for the good
of our country should it be greatly more than our proportion.
I am impatient to be well, and anxious for to be doing what
I can for the common good.

Pray command me freely in every thing that you judge proper.
I repeat, I am entirely devoted to your service.

I have some yonng men here who would gladly execute any
command from your Excellency.

I have collected the courses and deeds for your Roanoke land,
but decline sending them, as I suppose you will be too much
engaged to attend to it. I will have a plan of it taken here.
I am, with respect, Dear Sir,

Your Excellency's Humble Servt.,

BENJAMIN HAWKINS.
Gov. Nash.

COLO. P. MALLETT TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Thursday Morning, 26th Aug., 1780.
Sir:

The hurry of business may have taken up your Excellency's
attention towards the supplies necessary for the troops here, and
for the very inconsiderable number that will be in this night.
The feeling I have for those in distress induced me to remind you
that there is not one day's rations. Mr. Henderson, of Granville,
offers 50 Cattle for money; they can be here in 4 or 5 days.
I am, your Excellency's most obedient Servt.,

P. MALLETT.

STATE RECORDS.

COL. JOHN BANISTER TO COL. BLAND.

[ From Bland Papers, Vol. 1, Page 33. ]

September, 1780.
My Dear Sir :

I wrote you by the last post, to give you an account of our late
misfortunes in South Carolina, since which we are certainly
informed that the defeat was not so fatal as was apprehended.
Instead of all the Maryland line being killed and taken, near five
hundred are come in, with most of the officers, particularly Small-
wood, Cist and Gunby, who were said to have been slain.

This veteran corps, after having sustained the attack of the
enemy, with the assistance of only one regiment of North Caro-
lina Militia, by a bold and well conducted attack on the enemy
forced a passage through their main body and retreated. On their
retreat they totally demolished a party of horse sent to harass
them, except two only that escaped by flight. The militia arc
collecting at their places, Charlotte, Salisbury and Hillsborough,
and Gov. Nash informs me that the defeat is by no means so dis-
astrous as was at first represented ; and adds that in a few days
they should be able to face about and confront their enemies, who
have been severely handled in this action, and had not advanced
from their post at Camden.

I was yesterday at Cawsons ; the family well. * * *

MAJR. GEN. GATES TO GEN. GEORGE WASHINGTON.

[ Extract of letter from Genl. Gates to Genl. Washington, Sept. 3, 1780. In
Letters to Washington, No. 41. p. 247. ]

Hillsborough, 3rd September, 1780.
Sir :
I had, the Day before yesterday, the honor to receive your Excel.
lency's letter dated the 8th August, from Orange Town. It gave
me infinite satisfaction to find you had baffled Sir Harry Clin-
ton's designs, and was to all appearance in so prosperous a situa-
tion. Heaven grant you the greatest Honor and Success. As to
the situation of affairs here since my last letter to your Excellency
of the 30th ultimo, I can only say no considerable alteration has
taken place, the Enemy remaining still and the Disaffected
1 :,—5

66 STATE RECORDS.

doing nothing of Consequence to disturb us. 1,400 of the Sec-
ond Draught of the Militia of this State are marched to cover
Salisbury and the country from thence to Charlotte, where Col-
onel Sumpterhas a command, which occasionally acts upon the
West Side of the Wateree, and has hitherto given such a jealousy
to the British in Camden as to keep them at Home. Three
hundred Virginia Riflemen under Colonel Campbell and Militia
from the back Counties are marching to the East Bank of the
Yadkin at the Ford, and Genl. Stevens, with what have not run
home, of the other Virginia Militia, is at Guilford Court House.
The Maryland division and the Artillery are here, to be refitted.
The former will be put into one strong Regiment, with a good
Light Infantry Company under Colo. Williams. The Rest of the
Officers will be sent immediately to Maryland for the purpose
directed by your Excellency in your letter to the Baron de Kalb
the 27th June, which came to my hands only yesterday from Rich-
mond in Virginia. General Muhlenberg acquaints me that near
Five Hundred Regulars are upon their march from Petersburgh
to this place; these, with the Marylanders above mentioned, will
make us stronger in Continental troops than I was before the
action. The Cavalry under the Colonels White and Washington
and Major Nelson are not quite equipped so as to be able to
march to Rock Fish in the neighborhood of Cross Creek as I
directed, but I hope they will soon be in a condition to obey my
orders.

Col. Dulyson, Aid de Camp to the Baron de Kalb, a most amia-
ble young officer, will wait upon your Excellency. He was wounded
and taken, but Lord Cornwallis has permitted him to go to Phila-
delphia on parole. All the Baron's baggage and Papers are
saved ; they are delivered to Colonel Dulyson, who will be respon-
sible for them.

Too much honor cannot be paid by Congress to the Memory of
the Baron de Kalb, who was every thing an Excellent Officer
should be, and in the Cause of the United States has sacrificed his
life.

HORATIO GATES.

STATE RECORDS.

COL. JOSEPH LEECH TO GOVERNOR NASH.

Genl. Caswell's, Sept. 3d, 1780.
Deae Sie :

I was on my way with Mr. Joseph Speed for Hillsborough, but
unfortunately hurt my Horse so much that it's impossible to pro-
ceed with him, find so improbable of geting another on the Road
that I am obliged to return to Newbern, which gives me much
uneasiness that I cannot attend your Excellency in the Service
of my Country at this alarming Crisis, when the Enemy is at our
door, and requires the assistance of every individual allmost in the
State for its defence.

I have sent what money I had with me bringing up by Mr.
Jos. Speed. £480,000 Is all I could bring out of £700,000 I
re'cd for one of Mr. Hawkins' warr'ts. The other Col. Cogdell
told me he had not money Left to pay any part of it, the remain-
der being small Bills, besides what I paid to the Cols, of Several
Counties, for the pay of the Militia volunteers & drafts. I could
not find room to bring it with me. I Ventured to pay Mr.
Walter Gibson £60,000 for Genl. Lillington, & as Mr. Gibson &
the others told me they could not march their men without the
money, made me venture to pay it, as I sayed before, rather than
the militia should not go, as the Col. sent their bonds to be ac-
countable to the Assembly. If your Excellency should not come
immediately down, and think it advisable to send another flag to
Charles Town with necessaries for our Prisoners there, before
your Excellency conies down please to advise me what to do, and
I'll endeavor to comply with your directions, & if you should
think it proper to send before you come yourself.

I Remain, with the greatest respect,

Your Excellency's most obedt. Servt.,

JOSEPH LEECH.

STATE RECORDS.

GOVERNOR NASH TO GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

Referred to the Comm. app'd. to take under con. the Resolves
from Congress.
Messrs. Coor, McLaine, Davis, Bryan, P. Hawkins, Green,

Smith, J. Williams, Winslow, Wilson, J. Hawkins,
To the Honorable the General Assembly.
Gentlemen :

In providing magazines for the support of the army, T wish to
call the attention of the General Assembly to an Event which, it
is more than Probable, will happen — I mean the arrival of the
French on our Coast to co-operate with the Land forces in the
Southern department. Of this I have had no official accounts,
either from our Delegates or the Pres. of Congress. The channel
through which I have my intelligence of them is such as does not
admit of any further explanation at this Time; and, Gentle-
men, if this desirable Event should take place, as I have reason to
believe will, we ought to be in readiness to answer any demands
of supplies that may be wanted by our Friends and Allies, and I
confide in the wisdom of the General Assembly to make such pro-
vision as may be thought necessary in such Emergency. I have
also the honour to lay before you, Gentlemen, a Letter which I
rec'd from Mesrs. Brier Walker & Craik, respecting a quantity of
Goods in their hands, the property of a certain Thomas Buckle,
and which I had ordered to be seized and detained until the sense
of the General Assembly should be had thereon. I conceived
that this Buckle had forfeited his effects by his criminality in
signing an address to Sir H. Clinton at Charlestown, the Particu-
lars of which I am ready to give an account of to such Gentle-
men as you will be pleased to appoint for that Purpose.

A. NASH.

Sept. 4, 1780.

COL. R. COGDELL TO GOVERNOR NASH,

New Bern, 4th Sept., 1780.
To His Excellency Abner Nash, Governor of North Carolina.
Sik :
The inclosed I rec'd on Saturday last by post, which made it

STATE RECORDS.

necessary to send Express, as they may contain matters of conse-
quence which you would chuse to lay before the Assembly. I also
send you your last Neuse papers, & I have the pleasure to inform
your Excellency that the private Ship of war, Gen. Nash, has
brought safe into Port at Cape Fear two Valuable Briggs — prizes —
one from a Port in Scotland, with the best assortment of every nec-
essary. I have seen the Invoices of both prizes, the one from Scot-
land £10,800 prime lots sterling, the other from St. Christopher,
with Rum and Sugar and many other valuable Articles, to Amt.
of £40,000. Both were bound to Augustine or Charles Town.
The best prize was taken four days after the ship got out to Sea,
the other in a day or two after, about 12 leagues from Charles
Town Bar, without firing a gun. As Cape Fear is not a safe
Harbour, Contrary winds drove them in, but Capt. Deshon is gone
to convey his prizes into Ocracock or Old Topsail. Everything
that can be named for the use of the Army is on board ; 300 bis.
Flour, besides the Invoice.
I have the honour to be

Your Excellency's obedt. Servt.,

R. COGDELL.

COL. JOSEPH LEECH TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

. Newbekn, Sept. 5th, 17S0.
Dear Sie :
On my coming, home yesterday from Kingston, saw Col. Cog-
dell, who told me he had dispatches from Congress for your Excel-
lency, but could not get an Express to carry them to Hillsborough.
Not knowing but they might be of Considerable Consequence just
at this time of the Assembly's siting, have got one of the drafted
Militia, Elijah Fisher, to carry them immediately up, promising
also to keep him employed on his return, going up & down to
Kingston with corn and such other articles as are wanted to be
carried by water for the Army. As hands are not to be hired at
this time for that purpose, I am obliged to employ some of the
decrepped for that purpose, as there is constant employ for one
boat, and hope your Excellency will approve of it. I have sent
up 9 hhds. of rum & 14 Casks Coffee already to Kingston for the
use of the Army, and shall send more rum, Coffee & Corn by the

70 STATE EECOEDS.

boat this trip, (as she is now in town,) with the remainder of the
400 stand of arms and Pistols that come from Martinique with the
Marquis of Britany ; upwards of three hundred stand were sent up
with the Saddles, (& I think the bridles,) in 4 waggons that went
from Collins yesterday Morn, that are at Kingston, I suppose, by
this time. The 4 waggons had just returned from Duplin Court
House, where they left their corn & rum that they were carrying
from Newbern for our Army, not knowing where further to Carry
it. Doct. Guion's Schooner, Capt. Church, has just come up to
town from St. Eustatia, which place he left the 24th of August ;
says Capt. Curling's Schooner was taken out of St. Martins, with
2 Ships, Capt. Brown & Lewis mounting 20 guns each,two brigs,
and 2 Schooners, all Americans, by 7 Sail of English Frigates, and
that the Americans in St. Eustatia were in daily Expectation of
the same fate, and were in great confusion, getting their Effects
ashore, & some stripping their Vessels upon sight of some English
passing by. I am sorry for your Loss in Capt. Curling, but he had
got all his cargo on shore at St. Martins, except his Lumber, and
was in some hopes of buying his Vessel again of the St. Kitts
Merchant that bought her,\vhen Capt Church Left her at St. Kitts.
By the proceedings of the English at the Dutch ports, & church sayed
the same is Expected at St. Croix, the Dutch certainly must
declare war agst. England. Capt. Church says that he heard in
Staten that the Dutch in Europe demanded every third man from
the Merchant ships, before they would be cleared out, to fit out
their men of war. Eight or ten prisoners, that we;e mostly the tory's
from Bladen, & Mr.Gordon &Mr. Vail's uegroes, made their escape
last Night from our Gaol; amongst the Tory's one by the name of
Lewis, that a Lieut. Commission was found on him, was one. I
shall keep sending up to Kingston the remainder of what the Mar-
quis brought in, with the remainder of the rum, Coffee, &c, for
the use of the Army, as fast as I can, as the further it is up the
country the less lard Carriage it will take to the Army.
I am, Your Excellency's most obedt. Hum. Servt.,

JOSEPH LEECH.
P. S. The Bearer carries up Letters from Staten for Mr. Haw-
kins, in which perhaps there may be the News of the times there.
Capt. Church carried out a quantity of tobacco & stock for Mr.
Hawkins.

STATE RECORDS.

Before I got to town yesterday Capt. Moore had gone back to
Core Sound, and had stoped 12 six weight of powder for the freight
of 42 bhls or Cask, & 2 horn Saddles he brought in his Vessel
from Martinique of the Marquis's stores, saying that he was enti-
tled to 25 pc. Cash for his freight, which I think is too much,
which is more than even 25 per Cask for the powder, but he says
that 2 of it he kept for his part of the Saddles. The Bills of Lading
says he is to have Customary freight ; if he is not gone before this
Express conies back, I should be glad your Excellency would
direct me what to do. I have some thoughts of sending a writ to
Core Sound for the powder, in your Excellency's name. As it is
shipped on act. of the United States, I am told he said he wanted
a draft on Congress or continental money for the freight, but that
would have been out of my power to have given him had I been
at home.

The rest of the Marquis' articles were brought by the Eagle
packet, Capt.G. House ; no freights to be paid, as she belongs to the
United States.

MICH. GORMAN TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Newbeen, 5th September, 1780.
Sir :

1 took the liberty of addressing you a few days ago by Col.
Leech, then bound to Hillsborough, but since returned, his horse
having met an accident near Kingston. This day arrived Capt.
Church, in a vessel belonging to Doct. Guyon & others, from St.
Eustatia. By her we are certainly informed that 7 British frig-
ates have cut out of the Road of St. Martin's 2 Ships, of 20 guns,
2 Brigs and 2 Schooners, and sorry I am to heai the Sally & Betsy
is of the number. However, this Event took place after she had
landed & sold the whole of hei job. (So much safe.) hut the
Lumber was en Board and lost. Capt. Gurling went to Si. Kitts
to purchase her again.

Stanley's Ship has arrived in Wilmington iV- bro't in two Armed
llri--. one from Grenock, in Scotland, with the most valuable
Cargo ever imported into this State, A' a Genl. assortment ; the
Other from St. Kitts, with dry goods, Bum, Sugar & Fruit.

72 STATE RECORDS.

Stanley is gone to Wilmington, & I expect the vessels here every
day. It hurts me that we are doing nothing with our Brig, & in
want of nothing for the outfit but Cordage. However, there is
now in these prizes a large Quantity of Cordage, & I beg you will
urge & make it a point with Mr. Hawkins to give directions to
some person to purchase that article; or, should he think proper
to give me an order for money, I will do the needful in his
Behalf. I shall have many matters to purchase that will sink all
the money I can muster against the Sale. I am sorry Mr. Hawkins
does not join me in opinion respecting the large ship. Stanley
now has Canvass and Cordage for two such, & between them
she might be soon ready for Sea. She w'd be a Compleat
European Vessel. Our trade to the West Indies, I think, is at an
End, at least to Windward. I wish you could lend me your
assistance in recommending the matter to Mr. Hawkins. You
may depend the Outfit may be Effected Expeditiously.

It has been proposed in town to petition the Assembly to have
the ship purchased for the defence of this River, to be Stationed
near Hanging Point. She w'd then command the Channel Effect-
ually & be a protection for the Men, from which they c'd not make
a Shameful retreat from the fort. They might, & I really think
they w'd. Sho'd Mr. Hawkins totally decline my offer, I w'd
rather dispose of her in this manner than undertake her Outfit
between Stanley & me alone. I sho'd be happy in having a line
from yr. Excellency on this subject per return, & beg your atten-
tion to Mr. Hawkins respecting the purchase of this Cordage.
The Brigs have 14 guns on Board & large Qy. Ozanburgs ifc their
Canvass. I hope to hear matters wear a more favourable aspect
at Camp than is here reported,

& am, respectfully, yr. most Hum. Servt.,

MICH. GORMAN.

In the Prize from Scotland a large Qy. of bottled porter, 150
Hampers of Cheese, (Eng.,) a large Qy. of Teas & Sugar, all sorts
of Drygoods and hardware, 3 or 400 bolts of Canvass, a large Qy.
of Oznaburgs, Claret, Red port, and Old Hoe Sadlery, &c, &c,
to the Amt. of £15,000.

My compliments to Mr. Maclaine.

STATE RECORDS.

EXTRACT FROM— A General Return of the Men now in Camp under
the Command of Genl. Harrington at Forks Creek, near Cross Creek,
Sept. 5th, 1780.

Capt. Mulford, Bladen

Capt. Grant, Onslow

Capt. Deveaun, Duplin

Capt. Page, Duplin

Capt. King, Cumberland ...
Capt. White, Beaufort (?).

Capt. Forbes, Camden

Capt. Hill, Hertford

Capt. Stephens, Hertford..
Ensign Barber, Hertford..

Total

',>:W 1

■6 £ -2

. a * . a

13 11111659

GENERAL JETHRO SUMNER TO GOVERNOR NASH.

Camp Chatham Court House, Sept. 5th, 1780,
Sib:
I make use of the opportunity of this express to inform your
Excellency of our coming thus far. I have given orders for
marching off early in the morning, and will proceed with all
speed to Salisbury.

Sir, I am, with the highest esteem,

Your Excellency's most Obedient Servant,

JETHRO SUMNER.

STATE RECORDS.

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Capt. Rutledge

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STATE RECORDS. 75

COL. MOUNTFLORENCE TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Camp Ramsay's Mill, Sept. 5th, 1780.
Sir:
I joined Genl. Sumner Sunday evening, & remitted both to him
and Col. Seawell your Excellency's Letters. We are to march off
to day, & would have done it yesterday if it had not been for
waiting for the parties we had out for Provisions. Brig. Genl.
Caswell came up to us to day ; he is in a very poor condition of
health, & does not know when the Major Genl. is to join the
Army. I am, Sir, according to your kind recommendation, to act
as Aid tie Camp to Genl. Sumner on our March till we C me to
the Enemies' Line,.when I expect to take the Command of a small
Scouring party, wherein I am determined to deserve your Excel-
lency's notice or to fail entirely in the attempt. I met here, Sir,
Capt. David Meres, who holds a Commission in Colonel Seawell's
Regiment; tin* Officer is a French Gentleman, & bore a Commis-
sion in Genl. Pulaski's Legion '; has his wife (an American Lady)
& three Children in Charlestown, Sailed from that place about
nine months ago in a Brig belonging to him, was taken on the
coast ami brought into Jamaica, where he remained a prisoner of
war for three months, at the expiration of which time he was sent
out in a Flag of Truce with several others to the Cape Francois,
where he was exchanged. From there he embarked on hoard one
of the King's Vessels as a Capt. of Marines for Philadelphia. On
his arrival at Philadelphia he heard of the surrender of Charles-
town, which was the more afflicting to him as he had never met
with any opportunity either of writing to his family nor of hear-
ing from it. He is really, Sir, in the greatest distress for his
family, & entreated me to write to your Excellency to petition he
should It permitted to Repair with a Flag to Charlestown, to Get
permission from the Commanding Officer to settle his affairs in
thai Town, A' for removing his family to this State. His case,
Sir, I think very hard ; a foreigner in this Country, without
friends 'V- without relations, he is, & must he so, in the greatest
aneasiness about his famih : hi- losses herehave been very great,
luit would willingly make the sacrifice of his fortune, provided he
could get his family out of the Enemies' hands. The Bearer is the
Gentleman 1 mention, & would find myself happy should you

76 STATE RECORDS.

think proper to Grant him the request. We are told Genl. Har-
rington is at Cross Creek, pursuant to jour Excellency's orders,
with a Strong body of men. I will make use of every opportu-
nity that should offer to inform your Excellency of every material
Concurrence, & am,

With the utmost respect & Gratitude, Sir,

Your Excellency's most obedt. & most Humble Servt.,

COL. MOUNTFLORENCE.

GOV. ABNER NASH TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

[From MS. Records in Office of Secretary of State.]

Hillsborough, 6th Sept., 1780.
To The Honourable the General Assembly.
Gentlemen :
The distress of the country, and the dangers to which it is
exposed, call aloud for the most speedy and decisive measures.
The enemy, elated with their late successes, are now hanging on
your borders, and are threatening an invasion of this country.
Your men are numerous and high-spirited ; a considerable body
of regular troops are now on their march to your aid ; and the
country abounds in provisions of all kinds ; but yet if wise and
vigorous measures are not immediately taken to draw forth the
strength and resources of the country, we may nevertheless be
over run and become an easy prey to the enemy. The Congress
have advised a specific tax', and no other measure will, in my
Opinion, be adequate to the consumption of the Army ; nor will
this be sufficient for the present demand, for at this time our
treasury is exhausted, and we have no magazine of provisions lard
up. I don't know that there is three days' bread that can be
depended on for the troops here. It is evident, therefore, that
some further immediate supply should be sought for, whereby the
army may be supplied, whilst the provision tax is collecting. A
fund, Gentlemen, is in your hands, and necessity, in my opinion,
calls loudly for the immediate appropriation of it for the defence
of our lives, liberties and fortunes. As I have only one of the

STATE EECOEDS. 77

council to aid and advise me, permit me earnestly to recommend
to the General Assembly the expediency of appointing aboard of
war in aid of the executive, and that the vacancy in the council
may be filled up.

A. NASH.

JUDGE JOHN WILLIAMS TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Granville, September 7th, 1780.
Dr. Sir:

Eeceived yours of the 5th Instant, by which I conceive you are
under some apprehension from the Indisposition of your family.
I think you need be under none on that account. From the
children's present appearance, they seem much better than when
Mrs. Nash wrote you last, and I hope will continue to improve.
Master Frank can already swear a pretty round hand. Any thing
that Mrs. Williams or myself can do to oblige both Mrs. Nash &
your self will be done with the greatest cheerfullness, and consider
it a pleasure that we have it in our power to oblige you and your
family rather than any sort of incumberance upon us.

As in your letter you make no mention further of a Court of
Oyer, I presume it is thought the Hillsborough term so near at
hand as to make it useless ; yet in that case surely the Assembly
means to pass some act Impowering the court to try offenders for
offences committed without the District. Should a Court of Oyer
be thought of, I shall be ready at all times to attend wherever
your Excellence or the Assembly may think proper to Direct, and
shall Depend upon you for immediate instructions.

Col. Buford's Troops, abt. 300, as the officers say, very well
armed, passed this yesterday, and I presume will be at Hills-
borough this week.

I am, with all Esteem, Dr. Sir,

Your 01,. & very Hble. Servt.,

JOHN WILLIAMS.

Col. Henderson last evening I think seemed a little better.
His Excellency Gov. Nash.

78 STATE KECOEDS.

WILL. PASTEUR TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Newbeen, September 8th, 1780.
Sir:
Yesterday I came to this place, and in a few days there will be
ten waggons that are now on their way here. As they are much out
of order and want fresh horses I shall get them off as soon as possi-
ble, with what public stores there is here & all the Tent Cloath,
(fee, that I can procure here, tho' I am sorry to tell you that there
is not much here. Without your orders how to act I am Rather
at a loss, as I understand there is a considerable Quantity more
of Tent Cloath oznaburg at Edenton than there is here, and there
is a Brig arrived at Wilmington that is ordered to this place with
a considerable Quantity of Oznaburg Light Canvass & several
other articles that is much wanting for the use of our Army.
This Brig is a prize to Mr. Stanly's ship. She was from Scotland,
and the ship has brought her and another brig from the West Indies
into Wilmington ; both very valuable Prizes, & in a few days
they are expected here, as they are ordered round, as it appears
absolutely necessary for those articles to be procured for the Pub-
lic. Shall be glad of Orders by the Return of the Bearer from you,
if I am to procure them and how. If I do not receive orders
to stay and procure these articles, I shall Return with the wag-
gons, which will be ready to set off about the Return of the Bearer,
in which case, if they are thought to be wanting, it would be neces-
sary some other Person should be wrote to to procure them.
I am, Sir, with Respect,

Your most Humble Servt.,

WILL. PASTEUR.

GEN. JETHRO SUMNER TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Camp at Downings, Sept. the 10th, 1780.
Sie:
Here inclosed I have the honour to forward to your Excellency
General return of the Troops under my Command fit for duty, &
refer you to Gen. Caswell for a state of the arms and further par-

STATE RECORDS.

ticularities. I expect to be in Salisbury by Wednesday ; from
thence will send to your Excellency a fresh return of the Troops
& of the arms, which will be more regularly than the shortness
of time permitted me to get this done.
I am, Sir,

Your Excellency's most obedt. Servt.,

JETHRO SUMNER.

GEN. HORATIO GATES TO GOV. NASH.

11th Sept., 1780.
Sir:
Major Mazaret tells me there are about Seven Hundred Spare
Arms in Store (some of them out of Repair). Out of these the Dis-
armed Soldiers of General Smallwood's Brigade must be First
Armed ; the rest are at your request, ready to be delivered to the
Militia. I have no means of repairing Arms ; if you have, those
that want it shall be delivered to the Armourer so they can repair
them.

I am Yr. Excellency's Humble Servt. ,

HORATIO GATES.
To Governor Nash.

ROB. COCHRAN AND EWD. WINSLOW TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Upper Campbelton, 19th Sept., 1789.
To His Excellency Abner Nash, Governor, &c.
Sir:
At the request of a number of our Constituents, we beg leave
to represent to your Excellency That, by the removal of Colonel
Philip Alston to a considerable distance from Cumberland, and
the resignation of Lieut. Col. Matthews, The Offices of Colonel
and Lieut. Colonel of the Militia are at present vacant in this
County ; and as we have reason to apprehend that any doubt or
dispute about Rank or Precedency, at this critical period, might
be attended with confusion, and even Danger, to the peaceful
Inhabitants of Cumberland, we have to request That you would
be pleased to nominate two Gentlemen to fill these Offices during

80 STATE RECORDS.

'the Recess of the Assembly. At the earnest desire of many, and
indeed of all our Constituents whom we have Conversed with on
the Subject, we take the liberty of recommending Major James
Emmitt as the properest Person in this County for Colonel. His
general good Character, his experience of Military Affairs, and his
steady, spirited and uniform Conduct during the whole of the
present Contest, all conspire to entitle him to such a Command.

Under his direction we have reason to believe that the Militia
of Cumberland might be induced to render more essential Services
to This and the United States than if headed by any other Per-
son. Fond of the Man, and confident of his Abilities, They would
gladly undertake & cheerfully execute every order he issued.
Major Emmitt, who is ignorant of this application, (should he
meet with your Excellency's approbation,) We are certain will be
deficient in no part of his Duty ; but as he has been unaccustomed
to a regular Army, and of course to Officers well acquainted with
their Trade, We presume he would be the properest Person to
recommend a Lieut. Colonel for your Excellency's approbation.
At no period of the war did this County so much require Men of
Abilities, Experience and Perseverance as at the present ; but
even these virtues, unless they are assisted by Unanimity among
the superior Officers, will not avail.

The appointment of Major Emmett to the Command of the Reg-
iment, with a Lieut. Colonel he should approve, we really believe
would be attended with numberless good Consequences ; and
therefore we sincerely join with our Constituents in praying that
your Excellency may be pleased to grant the Requisitions con-
tained in this Letter.

We have the Honour to be,

Your Excellency's Most obedt.

& very humble Servts.,

ROB. COCHRAN.
EWD. WLNSLOW.

OOL. TtTOUNTFLORENCE TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Camp neae Charlotte, Sept. 21st, 1780.
To His Excellency Abnei Nash.
Sir:
Being Aid de Camp to Genl. Sumner, and having acted as such

STATE RECORDS.

since the 4th Inst., I apply to your Excellency for a Commission
of Field Officer. You know, Sir, it is customary that the General
Aids should be of a rank Superior to the Captains which they are
every day in the care of Commanding ; & as Genl. Sumner Com-
mands for the moment the Southern Army, I believe you won't
find my application improper, as I am also his only Aid. I
expected the rank as Field Officer in the Month of May last,
when I was to act as Aid to Genl. Caswell. Circumstances were
not then favourable to me, but hope to be more happy now, &
would deem it a particular favour from your Excellency, should
you condescend to date me a Commission, if Granted, from the
4th Instant, agreeable to my appointment.

We are to join Genl. Davidson to day, Seven miles from this
place, & i'ho' Aid to the Genl. have his permission of being
sent on the Enemy's Line with one of the first parties; the
Enemy's number are inconsiderable, & Doubt whether they will
afford us any opportunity of engageing them, for fear of weaken-
ing themselves. Should they receive the least Check, they will not
be able to to keep the Field, but will be obliged to ret' eat.
I have the honour to remain, with the

Utmost respect & Gratitude, Sir,

Your Excellency's most humble

And most obedt. Servt.,

COL. MOUNTFLORENCE.

GOV. JOSIAH MARTIN TO LORD GEORGE GERMAIN.

[B. P. R. O., America & West Ind. B. T., Vol. 314, P. 1.]

Head Quaetees, Waxhaw, 21st September, 1780.
My Loed :
I had the honor to congratulate your Lordship on the signal,
glorious and complete victory obtained on the 16th over the Rebel
Army, commanded by Maj. Genl. Gates, by His Majesty's forces
under the command of Lieut. Genl. Earl Cornwallis.

I have now only to observe to your Lordship that the just, pru-
dent, vigorous and decided measures pursued by the noble Lord
since his Victory are as likely as any I am able to conceive, and

STATE RECORDS.

bid fairer than any I have hitherto known employed, to quell and
extinguish the Spirit of Rebellion, so far as they go ; but from the
infinite extent of the field of His Lordship's operations, and
variety of objects to which he is necessarily obliged to give his
constant attention, his difficulties are multiplied beyond imagina-
tion, and are, I think, in the utmost measure that it is given to
human wisdom, patience and fortitude to support and provide for.
His expedients, however, grow with the occasions, and I am war-
ranted, as far as we discern without information for these two
months past from New York, to promise your Lordship as favor-
able an issue of the Campaign under his guidance as can in
reason and the nature of things be expected under such compli-
cated embarrassment. From the exertions of a General com-
manding so small an Army his success and the extent of it must
assuredly depend very much on the measures taken by Sir Henry
Clinton in the Chesapeake, where I have always considered a
diversion, at least, to be indispensably necessary, if possible.

With regard to North Carolina, it appears that o\ir Friends in
that country have been intimidated beyond belief by the cruel
apprehensions of their persecutors, which they have borne with
astonishing patience and fidelity. They continue to give great
assurances of aid and strength to Lord Cornwallis and myself
when the army shall advance into their Country, and it will be
now probably soon known what may be the fruit and efficacy of
their good will to us, which certainly cannot be doubted.

Lord Cornwallis has been pleased, on my recommendation, to
appoint Mr. John Cruden to execute the purposes of His Lord-
ship's important Proclamation of the 16th inst., and I am hopeful
his character, capacity and integrity, which qualify him for any
Trust, will bespeak your Lordship's favour to continue him in
office.

I have, &c,

JO. MARTIN,
Govr. of North Carolina.

Rec. 11 Deer.

STATE RECORDS.

GENERAL WM. DAVIDSON TO GENERAL GATES.

[Papers of the Continental Congress, No. 154, Vol. 21., Page 271.]

Capt. Phipher's, 26th September, 17S0.
Sir:
This day at 11 o'clock the Enemy march'd into Charlotte in
force. According to the best information, Col. Davie skirmished
with them at that place, and for several hours since, retreating, as
pr. Express. About two he was reinforced by about 300 cavalry
and infantry, but no intelligence since they joined him. He is
directed to continue skirmishing with them to cover our retreat.
The Inhabitants are flying before us in consternation, and except
we are soon reinforced the west side of the Yadkin must inevi-
tably fall a prey to the enemy. Rowan is able to give us very
little assistance, on account of Col. Eerguson's movements to the
West-Ward.

Sir, I have the honor to be, &c,

WM. DAVIDSON, B. Gen.
P. S. Genl. Sumner desires me to give you this information.

DR. THOMAS BURKE TO HIS SECOND (IN SULLIVAN MATTER).

Dr. Sir :
I have waited long with patience, but not without uneasiness,
for the result of the Conference which General Sullivan proposed
upon your Communicating to him the Message of which yon were
so obliging as to take charge. I consented to that proposition,
not because I approved it, but because I would not be thought
to have a disposition averse to the more amiable mode of deciding
our affair. I felt, indeed, the indelicacy of permitting any per-
son to Judge in an affair of honor; but as the proposition came
from the party called on, and the reference was only to be to the
Seconds, and as I have the highest Confidence in your Judgment
and Sense of honor, I got over my reluctance. I expected that

84 STATE RECORDS.

the discussion would be liberal, candid and ingenuous, and appre-
hended nothing like the refinements and Subtleties which you tell
me are Insisted on. The Questions seem to me clear and Simple
and the state of the matter short.

An Officer writes a letter to Congress, reflecting very Injuriously
on a member of that Assembly who had represented his conduct
in the action of Brandywine. Only one Member had made that
representation, and that member must have been known to the
whole assembly ; but the Officer might not have known him, tho'
it was highly probable that whoever informed him of the repre-
sentation that was made informed him of the Member who made
it. The Member, in order to put the matter out of doubt, wrote to
the Officer, fully stating the representations he had given, the
opinions he declared and still entertained, and the motives for
both, which could only be a Sense of duty, and not personal ill
will, the Officer being personally a Stranger to the Member. The
member, having thus fully informed the Officer, requires him to
make proper Satisfaction for the Insult offered in the letter to Con-
gress, if it was intended for him who now wrote to the - Officer,
and assured him that if the Satisfaction was refused a personal
Interview must be the Consequence. The Officer refused giving
the satisfaction required, in a letter which refers this member to
Certificates relative to the officer's general Conduct and personal
courage, and Insinuating, very Indelicately, that the member was
prejudiced. The member answered this letter, and having animad-
verted on the Certificates and other matters, finally considers the
refusal of the satisfaction required as a declaration of the choice of
the other alternative. The Officer replied in terms highly offen-
sive, being no less than that the member was neither a man of
Truth nor a Gentleman.

Accidents for a long time prevented their meeting, and when
they came in reach of each other the member renewed his appli-
cation, and required the matter to be closed by one alternative or
the other. The Officer proposed that the Seconds should decide
what was to be done, to which the member agreed. In short The
Officer Insulted the member by a public address to the first assem-
bly in America, and the Insult must remain on their records. The
member gave no provocation except in discharging what he
deemed his duty, and free from all personal ill will or regard.

STATE RECORDS.

The member very explicitly declares his Conduct, his opinions and
his motives, and requires satisfaction for the affront. The officer
afterwards writes several very offensive and injurious letters to
member, and it seems, it is Contended, that the memh-r^s having
declared that he still held the opinions he gave in Congress is sufficient
to Justify an affront that was given long before such declaration,
and also all the Subsequent injurious language of the Officer. This
appears to me very absurd ; and, indeed, I plainly perceive from
it that he who contends for it thinks that the member ought not
to have felt at all for the affront given by the Officer, tho' in a let-
ter addressed to the first assembly in America, and to be on their
records, but ought, in the most mild and Supplicating language, to
have requested an Explanation, and that afterwards the Officer
■was not bound to any such delicacy in expostulating with the
member, but was at liberty to use the most reproachful Terms in
the language, aud.it is highly unreasonable in the member to be
offended. In a word it amounts to this: Officers are under No
Necessity to observe any delicacy with Members of Congress or
private Gentlemen, and yet members of Congress or private Gen-
tlemen must be extremely delicate and Circumspect even when
they demand satisfaction for injuries.

I assure you; Sir, I consider this kind of refinement and Sub-
tlety as trifling with the feelings of a man of honor, and I feel
it as little less than a Second Insult, and I am extremely
unwilling to admit of any further Negotiation. However, as I do
not wish to be thought desirous of coining to too serious a decision
unnecessarily, I will agree that one Gentleman be consulted by
the Seconds if they themselves cannot agree, and I have no objec-
tion to Mr. Wilson. But I must positively forbid the Communi-
cation of it to more than one, and even to that one it must be
under the most Sacred injunctions of Secrecy.

- To prevent, also, all preteuce for refinements in future, I will
here state the Questions which alone I will agree to submit. Was
my Conduct as a member of Congress sufficient provocation for
the affront given by General Sullivan in his letter to Congress?

As this affront was given previous to any letter of mine to
General Sullivan, I must insist that nothing in my letter can or
shall be admitted to extenuate it, except only the representations
which it relates to have been made in Congress. This being the

86 STATE RECORDS.

Testimony of that Conduct, given explicitly by myself, Were any
Asperities in my letters sufficient to Justify the reproachful lan-
guage in General Sullivan's answers ?

To this surely should be referred what ever may be deemed
offensive in my letters, and not to the Letter to Congress, which
Contained an affront to A member who, tho' not named, was
Necessarily known to the whole Assembly, and which existed
long before I wrote any letter.

If the submission is refused on these Terms, I must entreat you
to proceed in the business on the Original ground.

I am, Dr. Sir, }7ours,

THOS. BURKE.

HON. DR. THOMAS BURKE TO GENERAL SULLIVAN.

Tyaquin, near Hillsborough, No. Carolina,

September 28th, 1780.
Sir :
I have Just received yours dated 18th of April last. I perceive
it was written immediately after my last reached you, and while
your mind was under the Influence of resentment ; to this I attrib-
ute its being in astile which I did not expect from a Man of your
rank. I sit down to write to you immediately on the receipt of
yours, and I hope you will perceive that, if I exceed you in nothing
else, I do in temper and the manners of a Gentleman. Yon say the
general assertions contained in mine respecting the Opinions which
Congress and the Country in general entertain of your Military
abilities you know are as far from truth as the asserter is from
being a Gentleman of Candor,honor or veracity. Tho' this language
be hypothetical, 'tis easy to perceive yon mean it to be affrontive;
and there is no great degree of heroism iu using it to a man who is
at the distance of many hundred Miles. If the asserter be as near
to candor, honor and veracity as the assertions are to truth, his
relation is as Intimate as possible. You cannot know the things
you say ; you know not the asserter, you have not heard the
Debates in Congress, and you have not heard the public Voice ;
you can havje heard only the voice of the Camp, and that only by

STATE RECORDS.

report of such as are not very willing to Convey disagreeable
Truths to yon. You are therefore, I presume, but imperfectly
qualified to pronounce whether the assertions are true or false, or
what is the personal character of the asserter. You are, not I, am
persuaded, very fond of hearing such assertions, and few will be
at the trouble of making them to you. I should not have troubled
you with them, were it not for your Insinuation that I Injured
your reputation through Malice. As this is a motive I am altogether
unconscious of, I did not choose even you should deem me capable
of being influenced by it, and I doubted not that good sense and
Candor would convince you it could not be the motive of a man
who was so far removed from all Connection with you, and who
scarcely knows you by Sight ; who, being in a public character, was
bound to form some Opinion of you as a public Officer, and could
form that opinion only with those Senses and powers of under-
standing which God gave him, and whom Integrity compelled to
speak that Opinion in that public council of which his Country
appointed him a member. That I was not Singular in that opinion,
that I am but one of a Multitude who have formed the same,
many, very many, Sir, can inform you, if they will be at the trou-
ble. Whether you think it true or not shall give me no further
Concern, you yourself do not more Sincerely wish it to be erro-
neous than I do.

You Conceived, when you refused the explanation I asked, I
should find myself under the Necessity of Seeking you out. You
seem to have overlooked some Intimations in my Letters. When
yours to Congress, which gave occasion for our correspondence,
reached that Assembly I was absent ; on my arrival at York I
learned of it, and being then, as I believe I informed you, on my
Journey home, [stopped only to write to you. I did not intend that
the affair should interrupt either jours or my more important Con-
cerns. You were busy in the Campaign ; I was on a visit to my
Family, from which I had been absent many Months, and on my
arrival at home I was called to attend to my duty in the Legislative
Assembly of my Country, where my efforts, however feeble, were
necessary for forwarding the great business in which we are both
engaged. These I deemed of far greater Importance than adjusting
a private affair, and doubted not wo should find sufficient Leisure
in the recess of the Campaign and after my return toCongress. My

STATE RECORDS.

return was delayed much longer than I expected by an unforseen
accident and the almost impassable condition of the roads, and
your being ordered to Rhode Island was an event as unexpected
as unwelcome to me. To have followed you would have been Idle
and romantic, and if otherwise it was out of my power. My pres-
ence in Congress was absolutely necessary to enable them to pro-
ceed to business, at least so generally so that I could not have
obtained permission to have gone any distance. You, I presume,
know enough of the Constitution of Congress to know that this is
possible. All these circumstances, except the last, I think were
Suggested in my former Letters, but you seem to have overlooked
them. I am not, Sir, Spur'd on by resentment, nor, I hope, quite
so intemperate as to be indiscreet. Tho' I earnestly wish for a
proper occasion, I can wait for it without foregoing ray purpose.
When I requested you to appoint some place, beyond the Imme-
diate Neighborhood of the Camp, I imagined it would be equally
agreeable to you as to me, and could not suspect you of so great
an Indelicacy and impropriety as to wish our Interview to be at
Camp. I am still persuaded that had you remained with the
Grand army you would have found means to facilitate our meet-
ing in some not improper manner. When I was informed of your
orders to proceed to Rhode Island I gave up all hopes of seeing
you until after the present Campaign. Some event, I doubt
not, will yet bring us together. I expect a fortunate one from the
aspect of affairs in your department. My last letters from Phil-
adelphia of 27th of August assure me you promise Congress very
Important Successes. I hope they will be verified, and that next
winter will see you in Philadelphia to receive the thanks of Con-
gress for your eminent Services. Then may come that auspicious
hour when you may take the measures which appear to you proper,
when you may meet the man whom you suppose to have injured
yon, and whom you nevertheless may deem unworthy to meet
in arms. Your Insinuations, Sir, I shall not give myself the trou-
ble to explain. If you deem your endowments of body or mind
superior to mine, or that Mr. Sullivan as a private Citizen or pri-
vate Gentleman is superior to Mr. Burke, or that a Major Gen-
eral in the Army of the United States is superior to a representa-
ativc of one of those States, it shall give me no concern. These are
the only particulars in which a comparison can be made between

STATE RECORDS.

us ; and (if I mistake you not) the Idea of your own Eminence is
very pleasing to you; I wish not to deprive you of it. Enjoy it, Sir
with my hearty good will. The measures which appear to you
proper I am sure are not assassination. You are incapable of
that; in whatever other mode you may make your meditated attack,
I trust it will not so far disconcert me as to prevent my giving
you an honorable reception. In this I will venture to have a little
confidence in myself. ■ I am Sir, &c,

THOS. BURKE.

GEN. JETHRO SUMNER TO MAJ. GENL. GATES.

[Letters Genl. Gates, 154, Vol. 2, P. 277.]

Camp at the Yadkin fokd, )
Sept. 29th, 1780. \
Sir:

Since Genl. Davidson wrote to you at my request from Phy-
fer's, the Enemy continue in Charlotte, about 2,000 strong ; some
•enlarge theii number to 3,000. On my retreat I endeavoured to
bring off all the public stores there I could get any knowledge of,
& effected it. I have detached Col. Davie of the Light Horse &
Col. Taylor with 200 Horse to Phyfer's Mill & in the Vicinity,
to remain & from thence to reconnoitre, & if possible to prevent
the Enemy's plundering the inhabitants, A: to gain what intelli-
gence they could of their strength c*c designs, & to communicate
them immediately to me ; I had an intention of detaching 250
infantry from the Division as a support to the Horse, but those
Gentlemen advised to defer this party an till they had felt their
intention of fighting by parties ; this party of Horse, lam persuaded,
will be joined by a large number from the Country, as they are
very Desirous to drive the Enemy from thence.

My information from Charlotte assures me that the Enemy had
22 killed by our party, the day they took possession of Charlotte,
& a larger number wounded. Several other small parties have
been fired on, & a few killed on both sides. I every hour expect
to hear from Colonels Davies & Taylor. There is near 200 of the
Soldiers which compose this Brigade who claim Discharge of
Colonel Jarvis's & Colonel Exam's Regiments. I wish, Sir, to
have some orders on this matter, being not acquainted with the

STATE RECORDS.

Resolves of the Assembly respecting the Militia. I shall continue
to give you every matter of intelligence which I may get of the
Enemy's movements, &c, that may be in my power.
I am, Sir, Yr. obedt. Servt.,

JETHRO SUMNER.

P. S. This moment by express from Colo. Brevard, who was
sent with a party of Horse to gain intelligence from the West-
ward, I am informed that Col. Ferguson is at Burke Court House,
which seems to indicate an intention of forming a junction with
Lord Cornwallis. Here inclosed is an examination of 1 British
.Prisoners taken at Charlotte.

J. S.

Honble. Majr. Genl. Gates.

[Endorsed] Camp on Yadkin, 29 Sepr., 1780.
General Sumner rec'd 2 October, answ'd immediately.

GETsTL. JETHRO SUMMER TO MAJ. GEXL. GATES.

[Letters of Genl. Gates, 154, Vol. 1, P. 275.]

Camp McGoon's Ckeek, October 1, 1780.
Sir :

By Capt. Lock I received a Letter informing me of Colonel
Dickerson, who was on the Enemy's Lines yesterday and discov-
ered 800 of them upon their march, three miles in advance from
Charlotte, with two' Field pieces of Cannon, on the Road leading
to Bety's ford on Catawba River, about 9 o'clock in the morning.
This Detachment is probably intended to support Major Fergu-
son, who, we are informed, is in the Neighborhood of Burke
Court House, and to act against Cols. Lock, Cleveland, McDowell
and Armstrong.

We have some accounts of the Enemy's being reinforced with
two Regiments from New York; others say 1,000. men. This
Intelligence is taken from Prisoners. Also that they brought
with them to Charlotte about Eighty waggons and 70 or 80 Hogs-
heads of Rum ; that it was given out they were to march in ten
Days from Newbern ; that they were building brush Hutts, their

STATE RECORDS. 91

Lines were circumscribed close in the Town, and the Roll called
very often in the Day; that their Liquors were stored.
I am, Sir, yours, &c,

JETHRO SUMNER.
General Gates.

[Endorsed.] Letter from Genl. Sumner to Major Genl. Gates,
October 1, 1780.

HO>T. WHITMELL HILL TO HON. DR. BURKE.

Dr. Mr. Burke.
Sir:
Many opportunities from your place have offered since I had
the pleasure of receiving yr. last, and as you have not noticed
them by a Line to me, must suppose that you waited the Rise of
the Assembly, when you would have it in your power to afford
me some satisfaction in consequence of the measures adopted by
them for the Defence of the Country, and for supplying the Army
with necessaries immediately, &c. I hope our State, with the
assistance it may rece ve from Virg., will be able to repell the
Invasion from our own State, except a considerable Reinforcement
should be sent Cornwallis this Winter, which event we ought to
be prepared for, as I know of no Obstacle to prevent it. The
Campaign in this quarter has been altogether inactive as yet.
Our Hopes and our Fears have been alternately wrought on, one
day encouraged with the Intelligence of the arrival of the French
Fleet, and the next depressed by receiving certain accts. of a
superior British Fleet being arrived at N. York. A very consid-
erable Embarkation has taken place at N. Y. very lately, which it
is one day said to be destined to attack the French Army and
Fleet at Rhode Island ; the next, that Yirg. is their Object. How-
ever, the late discovery of yr. Friend Arnold's Treason fully con-
vinces me that their great preparation was for the Reduction of
Wt. Point, which, it seems, would have been an easy conquest,
Arnold having previously sold that important Post. The partic-
ulars of this Villanv lias nut reached us, but from what we can
collect it is something like the following: Mr. Andreo, the Adju-

STATE EECOEDS.

tant Genl. of the British Army, came incog, to Arnold's Head
Quarters, and stipulated with him the essentials for his surrender-
ing the Post, in consequence of which Arnold gave him, in writ-
ing, the strength of the Garrison, the mode of attack to be made
by the Enemy, and the manner he should conduct the Defence
so as to render the Seduction certain and easy. Having adjusted
matters, Arnold gave Andree a Pass, directing a free passage
thro' the several Guards. In this he succceeded, and was twenty
miles in his Return when he was stopped by forty Militia Men
without an Officer, who, being directed by Inspiration, would not
suffer him to pass without a Search, in winch tbe above papers
were discovered, and they conducted him to the nearest Conti-
nental Officer as a Spy, who immediately dispatched an Express
to inform Arnold that there had been a Spye in his Camp, and
that he was apprehended, at the same time describing him so as
to satisfy Arnold that it was Andree: on which he immediately
pushed down the Siver to a British Frigate, then lying about 15
Miles below. Had this event took place it must have effected us
more than any Stroke we bave received sirce the War, as our
Army would have been immediately cut off from tbe total supply
of Meat, and had the British pushed their Arms into the Eastern
States there would have been no regular Army to oppose them,
and no Bread to have supported the Militia, had they collected.
In fact, I look on such an escape as equal to a small Victory.
On Arnold's running to the Enemy his papers were seiaed at this
place, and several of our speculating Gentry are discovered as
being connected with him in Scenes of Villainous Traffic with the
Enemy, &c. Yr. Friend Jas. Main's reputation suffers no small
stain in consequence of those discoveries, among others. None
of them have been apprehended yet, but suppose necessary steps
will be fallen upon to punish such Treason.

October 9, 1780.
Since writing the within, have reed, yours & Mr. Sharpe's,
and was really astonished at your mention of not having reed, a
Line from me since you left this City, as I have wrote you three
long Epistles besides the present, and certainly some extraordi-
nary mishap befals them on the Eoad. It is no neglect of mine,
.as I have embraced several direct opportunities to your place in

STATE RECORDS.

order to communicate what events worthy of your attention had
taken place since you left us. I have no particular matter to
engage your attention now except our wretched prospect of suc-
ceeding in our great Enterprise, and for a moment view this Con-
tinent contending with the most powerful people on Earth, with-
out one Shilling of Money in the Treasury, no public Magazines
of Provisions, Forage, &c." laid up for the Army, which during
this Campaign have been ten times without Bread, and as often
without one mouthful of Meat, notwithstanding there is a great
plenty in the Country; in fact, we have nothing to buy it with
but Certificates issued by the Commissary, &c. Of these the
people are "quite tired, and when it is to grow better I know not,
as I am very apprehensive the new Emission will not have a Cir-
culation wheu the attempt is made. Are you not alarmed at oxir
Situation ? Must confess 1 am exceedingly. Perhaps it may
arise from my natural Timidity, but the more I reflect on our
affairs the more gloomy prospects throw themselves within my
View. Amidst all our domestic Inefficiency, our Allies appear to
be at least inactive; the Armament sent to our Relief has been
blocked up in Rhode Island ever since their Arrival; the British,
by the latest accounts, keep the command of the channel, having,
by putting to Sea early, prevented the junction of the combined
Fleets; and, notwithstanding .the very great superiority of the
combined^ Fleets in the Wt. Indies, they have been hitherto inact-
ive, and at last dwindled to nothing. In short, I know not what
is to become of us.

I observe with pain the Restrictions you are obliged to make
on Genl. Gates' Conduct, and have since the recpt. of your Letter
prevailed on Congress to direct Genl. Washington to order a Court
of Enquiry into his Conduct and to send a proper Officer to suc-
ceed him. I don't know yet who it will be, but have some Expect-
ation it will be Green.

I write to Mr. Hart by this opportunity relative to his little
Daughter, and find there is some small Difficulty in Mr. Morris's
settling his accounts. As Mrs. Bordeau seems to press very much
for the payments to be made in Specie, I waited on Mrs. Bordeau
on the Business, and she informs me that it is necessary that her
several Masters should be paid in Specie, as they wonld not engage
to receive Paper. I believe it would be well that Col. Hart trans-

STATE RECORDS.

•mit to Mr. Morris a sum in Specie to answer these demands, it
being disagreeable to every person here to make advances of
Money, as they are all engaged in Speculations of one kind or
another. For my part, it is not in my power to make advances,
:as it will be with great difficulty I shall be able to get away with-
out borrowing:, which must have been the case had I not sent
home for a considerable Sum.

I am, Dr. Sir, wt. great Esteem,

Yr. most obedt. Servt.,

W. HILL.

COL. JAMES WILLIAMS TO MAJ. GENERAL GATES.

Bukke County, Oct, 2d. 17S0.
Sir:

I am at present about seventy miles from Salisbury, in the fork
of the Catawba, with about four hundred and fifty horsemen, in
pursuit of Col. Ferguson. On my crossing the Catawba River, I
dispatched to different quarters for intelligence, and this evening
I was favoured with this news, which you may depend on : That
Col. Clarke, of the State of Georgia, with one hundred riflemen,
forced his way from South Carolina to Georgia. On his route
thither, being joined by seven hundred men, he proceeded to the
town of Augusta, and has taken it with a large quantity of goods ;
but not finding it prudent to continue there, he has retreated to
the upper parts of South Carolina, in Ninety Six district, and
made a stand with eight hundred brave men. This moment
another of my expresses is arrived from Cols. McDowell and
Shelby ; they were on their march, near Burke Court House, with
fifteen hundred brave mounted men, and Col. Cleveland was
within ten miles of them with eight hundred men, and was to
form a junction with them this day.

I expect to join them to-morrow, in pursuit of Col. Ferguson,
and under the direction of heaven I hope to be able to render
yonr honor a good account of him in a few days.
I am, &c,

JAMES WILLIAMS.
Major General Gates.

STATE RECORDS.

GOV. THOMAS JEFFERSON TO

Richmond, Oct. 2, 1780.
Sir:
I am sorry to be obliged to inform you that it is out of my.
power to have paiment made of Mr. Clay's draught for 225,000
dollars. Our treasury is at present absolutely exhausted, and no
prospect of its being replenished till the assembly shall have met
& have had time to provide supplies. I hope this will reach you
in time to prevent the additional disappointment which might
arise from your setting out on your journey previous to your
receipt of it.

I have the honor to be,

With the greatest esteem & respect, Sir,

Your most obedt. & most humble Servt.,

THOS. JEFFERSON.

RESOLUTION OF CoNURESS.

[Journals of Congi-ess, Vol. 3, P 532.]

Tuesday, Oct. 3, 1780.
[Extract.]

Resolved, That the regular army of the United States, from and
after the 1st day of January next, consist of 4 regiments of cavalry
or light dragoons ; 4 regiments of artillery ; 49 regiments of infan-
try, exclusive of the Colonel Hazen's regiment, hereafter men-
tioned ; 1 regiment of artificers ;

* * * That each regiment of infantry consist of 9
companies, and each company consist of 64 men, commissioned
officers and privates. * *

* * * That the several States furnish the follow-
ing quotas, viz. : * * North Carolina, 4 regiments of infantry.

96 STATE RECORDS.

GOV. JOSIAH MARTIN TO RT. HON. H. F. CARTERET.

[B. P. R. O., Am. & W. Ind., No. 593.]

Head Quarters at Charlotte Town,
in North Carolina, Oct. 4th, 1780.
Sir:
By a letter I gave myself the honor of writing to you in August
by my friend Captain Ross, Lord Cornwallis's Aid de Camp,
I informed you that 1 conceived it would be proper, so soon as you
should find us in good hold of North Carolina, to employ your
interest to obtain Government's immediate approbation of the
Draft of a Bill which I transmitted for consideration in the year
1775, for the better collection of the King's and the Proprietors'
Revenue of Quit Rents in North Carolina, which was thought well
calculated to answer those purposes by the then Secretary of
State, and by him, as a matter appertaining to the Crown Reve-
nue, referred to the Treasury Board, where I think it probably
still is. This Bill, if it met with approbation, was to have been
returned with a recommendation to the Provincial Legislature to
pass it into a Law. I apprehended at that time it was not in the
intention of Government to take that regulation under the consider-
ation of Parliament ; and I should doubt whether it will be now
thought a business to enter upon them. If it is not, I should beg
leave to recommend it to you to obtain the necessary approbation
and recommendation of it to send to me, together with a Copy of
the Draft of the Bill, & of the detached additional clauses which
I transmitted in the year 1775 to the Secretary of State, when-
ever I shall advise you that they may be put in train, as it is
doubtfull whether I may find in this Country the original Draft
that by some oversight was left with other Papers which it is
probable the Rebels seized with my effects.
I have the honour to be,

With great respect, Sir, &c,

JO. MARTIN.
Right Honble.
H. F. Carteret, &c, &c, &c.

STATE RECORDS. 97

EDWARD SALTER TO GOVERNOR NASH.

Pitt County, October 4th, 17S0.
Sir :
I left Genl. Sumner's Camp, Seven Miles below Sharlot, on last
Sunday week, 24th. On Monday Morning I heard the British
were advancing, and Genl. Sumner was retreating towards the
Yadkin. On Thursday Evening three men came into Hillsborough
with an express to Genl. Gates. I was informed by them that
the British Troops were advancing ; that our Light Horse had
engaged the British Light Horse three separate times on the
Tuesday before, six miles this side of Sharlot. No material advan-
tage gained on either side ; that Genl. Sumner intended to retreat
on this side of the Yadkin in Order to be reinforced. I intended
to have waited on your Excellency, but am much fatigued and sick.
Mr. Bignell mentioned to me when at Hillsborough that provision
was to be put up for the use of the Army. If your Excellency has
the direction of that matter, I shall be glad to assist in this part,
as I have very good Convenience for hunting up provisions.
I am. Sir,

Your most obedt. Ser'vt.,

EDW. SALTER.

JOSEPH GIBBS, JR., TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

State No. Carolina, Hyde County, |
Mattamuskeet, October 4th day, 17S0. j
This, my Humble Redress to His Excelance, Desiring of his
Exalance that if he has received a petition Touching My Car-
acter of not receiving My Commition by Senniority, I beag to have
a Hearing aGreeable to Law for my rise, and allso for My Con-
duct in office, and not to be turned out by a fne desined persons, for
it is in my power to prove I had m\ Commition both by rise and
allso by the Voice of the Company, which is well known by all
the officers in the bove said County that the Man recommended
by a fue Indevegals never bore any Commition in hyde County in
the Militia, onlv had a Commition granted him in actual serves,
15—7

STATE RECORDS.

which I am able to make appear if his Exalancey will be pleas to
grant rue that Libberty, if the petition bath bore any wate with his
Exalance above mentioned.

Pray Excuse my Heast. From

Your Moust obedient and Verry humble Servint,

JOSEPH GIBBS, JR.
N. B. And that if his Exalance Hath Granted a Commition,
that I may have a Rehearing a Greeable to Law.
To His Excellence Governor Nash.

GOVERNOR ABNER NASH TO PRESIDENT SAML. HUNTINGTON.

[Dept, of State. North Carolina State Papers, Book 72, Page 101.]
Newbern, October 6th, 17S0.
Sir:

I have had the Honour to receive sundry dispatches from your
Excellency lately containing Resolves of Congress. These were
received on the Road during our Excursion made to the AVestern
part of the Country, and of course I could not conveniently answer
them as they came to hand, and I am now sorry to acquaint you
that there is little prospect of our being able to fill up our Conti-
nental Battalions, owing to the perpetual calls we have for the
Militia. All that part of thepeople who might otherwise be expected
to enlist in the service are employed as substitutes, and indeed
get the most extravagant premiums, far beyond anything that the
public could offer. So long, therefore, as this necessity cf employ-
ing so large a number of our Militia in the field continues, it will
be impracticable to fill up our Battalions ; & with respect to pro-
visions, I am to acquaint you that the state of our country at pres-
ent is such as will render very Precarious any supplies that might
otherwise be expected of us. Providence, indeed, has blessed us
with very plentiful crops, & the country abounds in Beef & Pork,
& could we keep the enemy out of the country, & have the bene-
fit of our Laws for laying a specific Tax, a very considerable sup-
ply might doubtless be expected of us ; but, Sir, as I said, this is

STATE RECORDS.

precarious, for the enemy have now marched in force into the
strongest part of the State. On the 24th Ult. they entered Char-
lotte, & by the last accounts were on their march towards Salis-
bury— our Militia flying before them. Genl. Davidson, who com-
mands for the pres't at the Westwaid, writes from Phifer's that
he shall endeavour to make a stand on the North side of the Yad-
kin. Should he be unfortunate in this attempt it will have a very
unhappy effect on our affairs, for the country below the Yadkin, to
within twenty miles of' Hillsborough, is chiefly disaffected, and
has been so from the beginning of the war. For the present I fear
we have little to expect from the Maryland & Delaware Troops
now at Hillsborough; their late loss of, in short, everything necessary
for troops in the Field renders them useless until they can be refit-
ted. Of this I suppose Gen. Gates has fully apprised Congress.
On our part we have been doing everything in our power to refit
the remains of that very valuable little army, consisting, when I
came from Hillsborough, as Gen'l Smallwood told me, of about
•Sl)|1 men. I hope Congress have taken some measures for supply-
ing them, for I assure you they must for the present constitute a
great part of the security of this State. The Enemy, it is true, are
not strong in this quarter in old troops, but their new levies are
numerous and under much better discipline than our Militia; not-
withstanding we shall call forth and exert our utmost force to repel
them, & in due time shall expect the aid which Governor Rut-
ledge writes me Congress intend sending hither. Before I con-
clude I think it my duty once more to mention to yr. Excellency
that it will be, in my opinion, unsafe to depend much, on this
State for provisions unless Congress do in time give orders to their
own officers to purchase on the general credit. All the funds of
this State have been exhausted in the course of the late campaign.
The horses, wagons, tents, arms, camp equipage of every kind, the
pay and bounty of the militia, and the provision of beef, pork,
flour, spirits, sugar, coffee, wine, medicines, &c., Arc., all fell upon
us, besides the paym't of very large sums on Congress draughts, &
all was lost in a single hour. Judge then, Sir, if money can at
this time be expected of us to purchase a new supply of pro^ isimi^,
&c, sufficient for an army equal to the defense of the Southern
States. I hope Congress will consider our distresses, and the

100 STATE RECORDS.

imminent danger to which we are now immediately exposed, & grant
us such aid and support as will consist with the general safety.
With the highest respect,

Sir, I have the Honor to be,

Yr. Excellency's most ob't serv't,

A. NASH.
His Execllency Samuel Huntington, Esq., Pres't of Congress.

BATTLE OF KING'S MOUNTAIN— BY ENSIGN ROBERT CAMPBELL.

[From the Annals of the Army of Tennessee, Oct., 1878, MSS. of the Ten-
nessee Historical Society.]

The following account of the Battle of King's Mountain was
found amongst the papers of James Campbell, deceased. It was
written by Robert Campbell, an Ensign in Capt. Dysart's com-
pany, who, upon Capt. Dysart's being wounded early in the action,
commanded the company afterward. The scene is not within the
limits of our State, but as we were then a portion of the Territory
of North Carolina, and as many of our families had relatives
engaged in it, I have thought proper to transcribe it, to be filed
with the other historical documents of our Society.

JOHN R. EAKIN.

Nashville, Tenia., 1848.

In the fall of the year of 1780, when the American cause wore
a very gloomy aspect in the Southern States, Cols. Arthur and
William Campbell, hearing of the advance of Col. Ferguson along
the mountains of the State of North Carolina, and that the Whigs
were retreating before him, unable to make any effectual resist-
ance, formed a plan to intercept him, and communicated it to the
commanding officers of Sullivan and Washington Counties, in the
State of North Carolina. They readily agreed to co-operate in any
expedition against Col. Ferguson. Col. Arthur Campbell imme-
diately ordered the Militia of Washington Co., Virginia, amount-
ing to near four hundred, to make a ready march under command
of Col. Win. Campbell, who was known to be an enterprising and
active officer. Cols. Shelby and Sevier raised a party of three
hundred, joined him on his march, and moved with forced

STATE RECORDS.

marches toward Col. Ferguson. At the same time Cols. Will-
iams, Cleveland, Lacey and Brandon, of the States of North and
South Carolina, each conducted a small party toward the same
point, amounting to near three hundred. Col. Ferguson had
notice of their approach by a deserter that left the army on the
Yellow Mountain, and immediately commenced his march for
Charlotte, dispatching at the same time different messengers to
Lord CornwalHs with information of his danger. These messen-
gers being intercepted on their way, no movement was made to
favor his retreat.

These several corps of American volunteers, amounting to nea1'
one thousand men, met at Gilbert Town, and the officers unani-
mously chose Colonel Campbell to the command. About seven
hundred choice riflemen mounted their horses for the purpose of
following the retreating army. The balance, being chiefly foot-
men, were left to follow on and come up as soon as they could.
The pursuit was too rapid to render an escape practicable. Fer-
guson, finding that he must inevitably be overtaken, chose his
ground, and waited for the attack on King's Mountain. On the
7th of October, in the afternoon, after a forced march of forty-five
miles on that day and the night before, the volunteers came up
with him. The forenoon of the day was wet, but they were for-
tunate enough to come on him undiscovered, and took his pickets,
they not having it in their power to give an alarm. They were
soon formed in such order as to attack the enemy on all sides.
The Washington and Sullivan regiments were form'd in the front
and on the right flank ; the North and South Carolina troops,
under Cols. Williams, Sevier, Cleveland, Lacey and Brandon on
the left. The two armies being in full view, the centre of the one
nearly opposite the centre of the other, the British main guard
posted nearly half-way down the mountain, the commanding offi-
cer gave the word of command to raise the Indian war-whoop and
charge. In a moment King's Mountain resounded with their
shunts, and on the first fire the guard retreated, leaving some of
their men to crimson the earth. The British beat to arms, and
immediately formed on top of the mountain, behind a chain of
rocks that appeared impregnable, and had their wagons drawn up
on their flank across the end of the mountain, by which they made
a strong breast work.

STATE KECORDS.

Thus concealed, the American array advauced to the charge. In
ten or fifteen minutes the wings came round, and the action became
general. The enemy annoyed our troops very much from their
advantageous position. Col. Shelby, being previously ordered to
reconnoitre their position, observing their situation, and what a
destructive fire was kept up from behind those rocks, ordered Robert
Campbell, one of the officers of che Virginia line, to move to the
right with a small company to endeavor to dislodge them, and
lead them on nearly to the ground to which he had ordered them,
under fire of the enemy's lines and within forty steps of the same :
but, discovering that our men were repulsed on the other side of
the mountain, he gave orders to advance, and post themselves
opposite to the rocks, and near to the enemy, and then return to
assir-t in bringing up the men in order, who had been charged with
the bayonet. These orders were punctually obeyed, and they
kept up such a galling fire as to compel Ferguson to order a com-
pany of regulars to face them, with a view to cover his men that
were posted behind the rocks. At this time, a considerable fire
was drawn to this side of the mountain by the repulse of those on
the other, and the Loyalists not being permitted to leave their post.
This scene was not of long duration, for it was the brave Virginia vol
unteers, and those under Col. Shelby, on their attempting rapidly
to ascend the mountain, that were charged with the bayonet.
They obstinately stood until some of them were thrust through
the body, and having nothing but their rifles by which to defend
themselves, they were forced to retreat. They were soon rallied
by their gallant commanders, Campbell, Shelby and other brave
officers, and by a constant and well directed fire of their rifles,
drove them back in their turn, strewing the face of the mountain
with their assailants, and kept advancing until they drove them
from some of their posts. Ferguson, being heavily pressed on all
sides, ordered Capt. DePeyster to reinforce some Of the extreme
post with a full company of British regulars. He marched, but to
his astonishment, when he arrived at the place of destination, he
had almost no men. being exposed in that short distance to the
constant fire of their rifles. He then ordered his Cavalry to
mount, but to no purpose. As quick as they wen mounted they
were taken down by some bold marksman. Being driven to des-
peration by such a scene of misfortune, Col. Ferguson endeav-

STATE RECORDS.

ored to make his escape, and, with two Colonels of the Loyalists
mounted his horse, and charged on that part of the line which was
defended by the party who had been ordered round the mountain
by Col. Shelby where it appeared too weak to resist them. But as
soon as he got to the line he fell, and the other two officers, attempt-
ing to retreat, soon shared the same fate. It was about this time
that Col. Campbell advance! in front of his men, and climbed
over a steep rock close by the enemy's fines, to get a view of their
situation, and saw that they were retreating from behind the rocks
that were near to him. As soon as Capt. DePeyster observed
that Col. Ferguson was killed, he raised a flag, and called for
quarters. It was soon taken out of his hand by one of the officers
on horse back, and raised so high that it could be seen by our
line, and the firing immediately ceased. The Loyalists, at the
time of their surrender, were driven into a crowd, and being
closely surrounded, they could not have made any further resist-
ance.

In this sharp action, one hundred and fifty of Col. Ferguson's
party were killed, and something over that number were wounded.
Eight hundred and ten, of whom one hundred were British regu-
lars, surrendered themselves prisoners, and one thousand live hun-
dred stand of arms were taken. The loss of the American army
on this occasion amounted to thirty killed, and something over
fifty wounded, among whom were a number of brave officers. Col.
Williams, who has been so much lamented, was shot through the
body, near the close of the action, in making an attempt to charge
upon Ferguson. He lived long enough to hear of the surrender of
the British army. He then said, " I die contented, since we have
gained the victory," and expired.

The third night after the action the officers of the Carolinas
complained to Col. Campbell that there were among the prison-
ers a number who had, previous to the action on King's Moun-
tain, nnitted cool and deliberate murder, and other enormi-
ties alike atrocious, and requested him to order a court martial to
examine into the matter. They stated that, if they should escape,
they were exasperated, and they feared they would commit other
enormities worse than they had formerly done. Col. Campbell
complied, and ordered a court martial immediately to sit, composed
of the Field Officers and Captains, who were ordered to enquire

STATE RECORDS.

into the complaints which had been made. The court was conducted
orderly, and witnesses were called and examined in each case. The
consequence was that there were thirty two condemned. Out of
these nine who were thought the most dangerous, and who had com-
mitted the most atrocious crimes, were executed. The others were
pardoned by the commanding officer. One of the crimes proven
against a Captain that was executed was that he had called at
the house of a Whig, and enquired if he was at home, and being
informed by his son, a small boy, that he was not, he immediately
drew out his pistol and shot him. The Officers on the occasion
acted from an honorable motive to do the greatest good in their
power for the public service, and to check those enormities so fre-
quently committed in the States of North and South Carolina at
that time, their distress being almost unequalled in the annals of
the American Revolution.

KING'S MOUNTAIN— BY COL. ISAAC SHELBY.

In 1815, and again in 1819, Gen. Martin D. Hardin, of Ken-
tucky, had conversations with Gov. Shelby with special reference

to the battles of Musgrove's Mill and King's Mountain, which he
carefully noted down at the time ; and which his son, the late Hon.
John J. Hardin, of Illinois, communicated to the American
Review for December, 1848. That part relative to King's Moun-
tain is as follows :

In the early part of the year 1780, Col. Shelby was appointed
Colonel of Sullivan County, North Carolina, with the authority of
County Lieutenant. Col. Sevier held the same command in
Washington County, North Carolina. These Counties are situated
west of the Alleghany mountains, and now constitute a part of
Tennessee. Col. William Campbell, at the same time, commanded
a regiment in Washington County in Virginia, but was not the
County Lieutenant. After the defeat of Gen. Gates, at Cambden,
on the 16th of August, 1780, the patriots were very much dis-
spirited. Many who resided in the eastern portions of North and
South Carolina sought safety and liberty in the mountains of
North Carolina and Virginia, amidst the hardy, patriotic moun-
taineers of those districts.

STATE RECORDS. 105

In September, 1780, Majr. Ferguson, who was one of the best
and most enterprising of the British officers in America, had suc-
ceeded in raising a large body of Tories, who, with his own corps
of regulars, constituted an effective force of eleven hundred and
twenty-five men. With a view of cutting off Col. Clarke, of Geor-
gia, who had recently made a demonstration against Augusta,
which was then in the hands of the British, Ferguson had marched
near the Blue Ridge, and had taken post at Gilbert Town, which
is situated but a few miles from the mountains. Whilst there he
discharged a patriot, who had been taken prisoner, on his parole,
and directed him to tell Col. Shelby (who had become obnoxious
to the British and Tories, from the affair at Musgrove's Mill) that
if Shelby did not surrender he (Ferguson) would come over the
mountains, and put him to death, and burn his whole County.

It required no further taunt to rouse the patriotic indignation
of Col. Shelby. He determined to make an effort to raise a force,
in connection with other officers, which should surprise and defeat
Ferguson. With this object in view, he went to a horse race near
where Jonesborough has since been built, to see Sevier and others.
Shelby and Sevier there resolved that if Col. Campbell would join
them they would raise all the force they could, and attack Fer-
guson ; and if this was not practicable they would co-operate with
any corps of the army of the United States with which they might
meet. If they failed, and the country was over run and subdued
by the British, they would then take water, and go down to the
Spaniards in Louisiana.

Col. Campbell was notified of their determination, and a place
of rendezvous in the mountains appointed, east of Jonesborough.
At the time appointed, September 25th, Campbell joined them,
and their united force numbered about one thousand riflemen.
They crossed the mountains on the 27th, in a ravine, and fell in,
accidentally, with Col. Cleveland, of North Carolina, who had
under his command about four hundred men.

The force having been raised by officers of equal rank, and being
without any higher officer entitled to command the whole corps,
there was a general want of of organ i/.at ion and arrangement. It
was then determined that a board of officers Bhould convene each
night and decide on the plan of operations for the next daj : ami
further, that oi f the officers should see those orders executed as

STATE RECORDS.

officer of the day, until they should otherwise conclude. Shelby
proposed that Col. Campbell should act as officer of the day.
Campbell took him aside, and requested Shelby to withdraw his
name, and consent to serve himself. Shelby replied that he was-
himself the youngest Colonel present from his State, that he had
served during that year under several of the officers who were pres-
ent, and who might take offence if he commanded; that Gen.
McDowell, who was with them, was too slow an officer for his
views of tbe enterprise in which they were engaged, and added
that as he ranked Campbell, yet as Campbell was the only officer
from Virginia, if he (Shelby) pressed his appointment no one
would object. Col. Campbell felt the force of this reasoning, and
consented to serve, and was appointed to the command as officer
of the day.

The force of the detachment was still considered insufficient to
attack Ferguson, as his strength was not known. It was agreed
that an express be sent to invite Gen. Morgan or Gen. Davidson
to take the command. Gen. McDowell tendered his services for
this purpose and started on his mission. Before pioceediog far
he fell in with Col. Williams, of South Carolina, who was at the
head of from two to three hundred refugees. Gen. McDowell
advised them where t he patriot force was encamped. They joined
the army, and thus made a muster roll of about sixteen hundred
men.

The board of officers determined to march upon Ferguson. In
the meantime two or three of their men had deserted after their
first rendezvous, and had gone to Ferguson and advised him of the
intended attack. The Army marched to Gilbert Town and found
that Ferguson had left it several days before, having taken the
route towards Fort Ninety-Six.

Finding that Ferguson was retreating, and learning what was
his real strength, it was determined on Thursday night, the 5th
of October, to make a desperate effort to over take him before he
should reach any British post or receive any further reinforce-
ments. Accordingly, they selected all who had good horses, who
numbered about nine hundred and ten, and started the next morn-
ing in pursuit of Ferguson, as soon as they could see.

Ferguson, after marching a short distance towards Ninety-Six,
had filed off to the left towards Oornwallis. His pursuers never

STATE RECORDS.

stopped until late in the afternoon, when they reached the Cow-
pens. They there halted, shot down some beeves, ate their sup-
pers & fed their horses. This done, the line of march was
resumed and continued through the whole night, amidst an exces-
sively hard rain. In the morning Shelby ascertained that Camp-
bell had taken a wrong road in the night and had separated from
him. Men were posted off in all directions and Campbell's corps
found and put in the right road. They then crossed Broad river
and continued their pursuit until twelve O'clock, the 7th of Octo-
-ber. The rain continued to fall so heavily that Campbell, Sevier
ami Cleveland concluded to halt, and rode up to Shelby to inform
him of their determination. Shelby replied: 'I will not stop
till night, if I follow Ferguson into Cornwallis' lines.'' Without
replying, the other Colonels turned off to their respective com-
mands and continued the march. They bad proceeded but a mile
when they learned that Ferguson was only seven miles from them,
at Ring's Mountain.

Ferguson, finding that he could not elude the rapid pursuit of
the mounted mountaineers, had marched to Ring'- Mountain, which
he considered a strong post, and which he had reached the night
previous. The Mountain, m- ridge, was a quarter of a mile long,
and so confident was Ferguson in the strength of his position
that he declared the Almighty could not drive him from it.

When the patriots came near the mountain they halted, tied all
their loose baggage to their saddles, fastened their horses aud left
them under charge of a few men, and then prepared for an imme-
diate attack. About 3 O'clock the patriot force was led to the
attack in four columns. Col. Campbell commanded the right
center column, Col. Shelby tie. left centre. Col. Sevier the right
flank column, and Col. Cleveland the left flank. As they came to
tin? foot of the mountain, the right centre and right flank columns
deployed to the right, and the left centre and left flank columns
to the left, ami thus surrounding the mountain they marched up,
commencing the action on all sides.

Ferguson (lid all that an officer could do under the circum-
stances. II is men, too, fought bravely. IJut his position, which
he thought impregnable against any force the patriots could raise,
was really a disadvantage to him. The summit was hare, whilst
the sides of the mountain was covered with trees. Ferguson's

108 STATE RECORDS.

men were drawn up in close column on the summit, and thus pre-
sented fair marks for the mountaineers, who approached them
under cover of the trees. As either column would approach the
summit, Ferguson would order out a charge with fixed bayonet,
which was always successful, for the riflemen retreated before the
charging column slowly, still firing as they retired. When
Ferguson's men returned to regain their position on the moun-
tain, the patriots would again rally and pursue them. In one
of these charges Shelby's column was considerably broken ; he
rode back and rallied his men, and when the enemy retired to
the summit he pressed on his men and reached the summit
whilst Ferguson was directing a charge against Cleveland.

Col. Sevier reached the summit about the same time with
Shelby. They united and drove back the enemy to one end of
the ridge. Cleveland's and Campbell's columns were still press-
ing forward and firing as they came up. The slaughter of the
enemy was great, and it was evident that further resistance
would be unavailing. Still Ferguson's proud heart could not
think of surrender. He swore " he never would yield to such
a d — d banditti," and rushed from his men, sword in hand, and
cut away until his sword was broken and he was shot down.
His men, seeing their leader fall, immediately surrendered.
The British loss, in killed and prisoners, was eleven hundred
and five. Ferguson's morning report showed a force of eleven
hundred and twenty-five. A more total defeat was not prac-
ticable. Our loss was about forty killed. Amongst them we
had to mourn the death of Col. Williams, a most gallant and
efficient officer. The battle lasted one hour.

The victors encamped on the mountain that night, and the next
morning took up their line of march for the mountains, under a
bright sun, the first they had seen for many days. They made the
prisoners carry their own arms, as they could not have carried
them in any other way. Amongst the prisoners Shelby found
some officers who had fought under him a few weeks previously
at Mnsgrove's Mill. They said that they had been compelled to
join Ferguson, and when they had been examined, and their
account found to be correct, they were well treated.

Owing to the number of wounded, and the destitution of the
army of all conveyances, they travelled slowly, and in one week

STATE RECORDS. 109

had only marched about forty miles. When they reached Gilbert
Town, a week after the battle, they were informed by a paroled
officer that he had seen eleveu patriots hung at Ninety-Six, a few
days before, for being Rebels. Similar cruel and unjustifiable
acts had been committed before. In the opinion of the patriots
it required retaliatory measures to put a stop to these atrocities.
A copy of the law of North Carolina was obtained, which author-
ized two magistrates to summons a jury, and forthwith to try, aud
if found guilty, to execute persons who had violated its precepts.
Under this law thirty-six men were tried and found guilty of
breaking open houses, killing the men, turning the women and
children out of doors and burning the houses. The trial was con-
cluded late at night. The execution of the law was as summary
as the trial ; Three men were hung at a time, until nine were
hung. Three more were tied ready to be swung off; Shelby
interfered and proposed to stop it ; The other officers agreed, and
the three men who supposed that they had seen their last hour
were untied. One of them said to Shelby, " You have saved my
life and I will tell you a secret. Tarleton will be here in the
morning ; A woman lias brought the news."

It was then two O'clock at night, but no time was to be lost ;
the camp was instantly aroused, everything packed up, the
wounded sent into secret hiding places in the mountains, and the
line of march taken up. The next day it rained incessantly, but
the army continued its march without stopping until they crossed
the Catawba the succeeding night. The river was breast high
when they crossed it : The weary troops bivouacked on its hanks,
and the next morning it had risen so much as to be past fording.
This obstacle bring such as to prevent all pursuit, they leisurely
retired with their prisoners. As an evidence of the hardships
undergone by these brave and hardy patriots, Col. Shelby says
that he ate nothing from Saturday morning until after they
encamped Sunday night at two O'clock A. M.

The information given to Shelby by the condemned prisoners
turned out to have been substantially correct. Lord Cornwallis
had detached Tarleton to pursue and attack the patriots and to
rescue the prisoners. Soon after Tarleton was dispatched, the
former took an old "Whig prisoner and examined him ; He told
the prisoner he could not learn who defeated Ferguson. The old

STATE RECORDS.

man told Kim. Cornwallis then inquired tire force of the patriots ;
He told him it was three thousand riflemen. Cornwallis asked
where they were gone; He replied, they replied they were bear-
ing down on him. Whether this was told under the belief that it
was true, or told as a ruse de guerre, it answered a very excellent
purpose. Lord Cornwallis and Rawdon immediately consulted
together, beat to arms, struck their tents, burned some extra
clothing and retreated to the south side of Broad river in confu-
sion. At the same time, a messenger was sent to recall Tarleton,
who was overtaken after lie had proceeded eighteen miles, and
who immediately returned to Cornwallis' camp.

At the time Shelby and his co-patriots raised their force Corn-
wallis supposing that be would meet no further serious resistance
in North or South Carolina, had projected the invasion of
Virginia in three columns. He was to advance in the centre, a
second detachment was to march on his right, and Ferguson was
to command the left wing. The time for the invasion was fixed ;
officers were out through the country collecting the Tories, and a
few days more would have made them very strong. The defeat of
Ferguson prevented this invasion, and so intimidated the Tories
that most of them declined joining the British, generally prefer-
ring to make a profession of faith to King George, rather than
take up arms in bis behalf.

At the time the nine hundred and ten men were selected to
pursue Ferguson, they were informed that there were six hundred
Tories embodied near them, and it was suggested that they should
be attacked. Shelby opposed this, saying that if they turned
after any other object they would lose Ferguson. After the bat-
tle of King's Mountain, this force, like all other partisan bodies,
called out for a peculiar emergency, was difficult to be kept
embodied. The men one after another returned home, so that
when they reached the Catawba there were not more men than
prisoners.

It is impossible for those who have not lived in its midst to
conceive of the exasperation which prevails in a civil war. The
execution, therefore, of the nine Tories at Gilbert Town will by
many persons be considered an act of retaliation unnecessarily
cruel. It was believed by those on the ground to be both neces-
sary and proper, for- the purpose of putting a stop to the execu-

STATE RECORDS. Ill

tion of the patriots in the Carolina* by the Tories and British.
The event proved the justice of the expectation of the patriots.
The execution of the Tories did stop the execution of the Whigs.
And it may be remarked of this lamentable and cruel mode of
retaliation, that whatever excuses and pretences the Tories may
have had for their atrocities, the British officers, who often
ordered the execution of Whigs, had none. Their training to
arms and military education should have prevented them from
violating the rules of civilized warfare in so essemial a point.

Those patriots who desired to continue in the service after the
battle at King's Mountain, especially the refugees, wished to be
formed into a corps, and tc be under the command of Gen.
Morgan. To effect this Col. Shelby went to Head Quarters and
saw Morgan, who said they were just the men he wanted. Gen.
Gates consented, and the Board of War of North Carolina ordered
out these militia, who marched up and joined Morgan ; most of
them were with him the next campaign, and proved the stuff
they were made of at the nobly won battle of the Cowpens.

COL. WM. R. DAVIE TO GEN. JETHRO SUMNER.

Miles from Charlotte,

Tuesday, 7-8 O'clock.
Dear Gum, :
I have just received Intelligence from one of my patrole parties
that the Enemy moved yesterday at One O'clock in the Afternoon,
aud were taking the Route by one Roush's, on Sugar Creek, lead-
ing to the Waxhaws.

Their Waggon Horses are so poor that they make very slow
marches. For want of provisions and ammunition, it will be out
of my power to inarch before the Afternoon.
O ! for a few Light Troops.

I am, Sir, with

Hum. Esteem, your &c, (fee,

WILLIAM R. DAVIE,
Col. Comd. Ma. Cavalry.
To Genl. Sumner.

STATE RECORDS.

COL. JKO. CHR. SEisF TO BRIG. GEN. BENBURY.

Camp at the North West Bridge,

Oct. 8th, 1780.
The Honble. Brigadier Genl. Benbnry.

Dear Sir :

Just when I had a little time to spare to send off an express to
acquaint his Excellency, the Governor of the State of North Caro-
lina, of our retreat, I had the pleasure of receiving your kind
Letter. The 26th Inst, in the evening I arrived at the great
Bridge, but to my great astonishment found every thing in the
greatest confusion; The men, believing the Enemy were gone off,
became careless & a number of Officers & men retired to th'eir
Homes. 1 have done as much as laid in my power to keep the men
together that were there. The 27th Inst, towards the evening I
got certain intelligence that the Enemy had relanded again, &
by all reports more than before ; they landed likewise about 30
flete Horse. Genl. Nelson had sent from Portsmouth two ships'
cannon which were posted at the Bridge, but considering in case
of a retreat the Cannon might be lost, & the place, by the number
of Men I had & in the greatest want of amunition and Arms &
natural inattention, by no means defensible, I sent one piece by an
ox cart to this Bridge & should have sent the Other if I could
have procured a Cart ; I was about to mount that piece on a Car-
riage, & had impressed Horses for such, when, this morning at Day
break they attacked us at the Bridge & soon drove off the small
number of men I had to defend the place. Not being able to
remove the piece of Cannon I had remaining at the great Bridge,
it has fallen into the hands of the Enemy. With one piece I am at
this side of the Northwest Bridge, but have not as yet ree'd any
assistance from any of those Counties you mentioned in your
Letter.

By Intelligence some Ships are gone up Nansemond River &
troops are Marched from Portsmouth to Suffolk ; if so, they cer-

STATE RECORDS.

taiiily aim for Edenton. Be so kind as to send off a copy of this
letter to His Excellency Governor Nash.
I am, with due respect,

Yo. mo. Humble Servt.,

JN. CHEISTN. SENF, Colo. Engineers.
If a Map of No. Carolina could be had T should be infinitely
Obliged to you to send me one by an opportunity or express.

HON. WILLIE JONES TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Philadelphia, Oct. 10, 1780.
Dear Sir :

I rec'd your favours of the 10 & 11 ulto. by Mr. Sharp, for
which I am much obliged to you. Gen. Washington is directed
to order a Court of Inquiry on the conduct of Gen. Gates, and to
appoint an Officer to take the Command of the Southern Army
until the Inquiry shall be made. I wrote to you fully on the 1st
Inst., & another short Letter subsequent per favour of Mr.
Stanley. In the first of these I informed you that the Board of
War had procured 800 Tents for the Southern Army ; when they
told me so, they counted upon 300 Tents, which they made no
doubt of obtaining from the Executive of this State, in which,
however, they were disappointed, and this reduces the number to
500, and I fear it will be a considerable time before they can be
forwarded.

It was yesterday reported that eleven Regiments had embarked
at New York, bound into Chesapeak Bay. Had I not the utmost
Confidence in the consummate Virtue & Wisdom of Genl. Wash-
ington, I should murmur that greater Reinforcements have not
been detached from the Grand Army to march to the Southward.
Colo. De Binsson told me that he met the new Maryland Regi-
ment on its March to Carolina, (which was compleat in number of
Mem when they left this,) and that it was reduced by Desertion
to about 150 Men. I flatter myself the Col. was mistaken. I
expect the British will make vigorous Efforts against No. Caro-
lina in the course of the ensuing winter; but as Virginia seems to
be some what aroused from the Lethargy in which she slept, and
the spirit of our Countrymen is yet unbroken, I make no doubt
in the end they will prove ineffectual. Colo. Andre was executed
15—8

STATE RECORDS.

the 2nd Inst. ; He refused to disclose any thing, and died like
gallant Soldier.

My Compliments to Mrs. Nash and my Friends at Newbern.
I am, Dear Sir, Your most

Odedt. Humble Servt.,

WILLIE JONES.
Inclosed the Paper of the Day.

GENL. JETHIto SUMNER TO MAJ. GENL. GATES.

[Letters of Genl. Gates, 154, Vol. 2, P. 291]

Camp Yadkin, October 10, 1780.

VIII o'clock, Evening.

Sir:

With great satisfaction I inform yon of the Defeat of Major
Ferguson on King's Mountain, 4 o'clock Saturday afternoon. The
Particulars I enclose you as rec'd a few minutes ago, also a Let-
ter from General Davidson of his securing twenty-nine Barrels of
Powder, which was secreted some time since near Charlotte.
I am, Sir, with great Respect,

Yr. Very hble. Servt.,

JETHRO SUMNER.

P. S. The Draught General Davidson mentions of the Enemy's
lines was omitted, by some means or other, being not enclosed to
me, but you may expect it next Express from this if the mistake
is discovered. J- S.

Genl. Gates.

[Endorsed] (10th Octr. 1780,) From Generals Sumner and
Davidson, with the particulars of the Defeat of Major Ferguson on
the 7th Oct., 1780.

STATE RECORDS.

COL. CAMPBELL'S ORDERS OF THE DAY.

Camp Below Gilbert Town,
October 11th, 1780.
Return of the strength of the different regiments, with the rank
and number of the dead and wounded in the late action, to be imme-
diately made out. Two hundred privates, with the proper and
necessary number of officers, to mount, guard every morning who,
with the field officers of the day, are to march with the front of
the army, and when we camp are to take charge of the prisoners
immediate!}', to detach the necessary pickets and patrols. I must
request the officers of all ranks in the army to endeavour to
restrain the disorderly manner of the slaughtering and disturbing
the prisoners. If it cannot be prevented by moderate measures,
such effectual punishment shall be executed upon delinquents as
will put a stop to it.

GENERAL GATES'S LETTER OF THANKS FOR KING'S MOUNTAIN
VICTORY.

Hillsborough, October 12th, 17S0.
To the officers commanding in the late defeat of Maj. Ferguson.
Sir:

I received, this morning early, the very agreeable account of
your victory over Maj. Ferguson. It gave me, and every friend
to liberty and the United States, infinite satisfaction.

I thank you, gentlemen, and the brave officers and soldiers under
your command, for your and their glorious behavior in that action.
The records of the war will transmit your names and theirs to pos-
terity, with the highest honor and f.pplause. I desire you will
acquaint them with the sense I entertain of the great service they
have done their country. I have, this morning, by a special mes-
senger, transmitted the intelligence of it to Congress.

I am now only anxious about the disposal of the prisoners, as
they must be ready to use in exchange for our valuable citizens
in the enemy's hands. Send them under proper guards to Fincas-
tle Court House, Virginia. I will desire the Colonel of that county

STATE EECOEDS.

to have a strong palisade, eighteen feet high out of the ground,
instantly set up, within which log huts may be built to cover them.
The guard must be without, and the loop holes eight feet from the
ground. Provisions, etc., shall be ordered to be provided for
them.

COL. ISAAC SHELBY TO COL. ARTHUR CAMPBELL.

[From the Virginia Argus, October 26, 1810.1

North Carolina, October 12, 17S0.

I have herewith the honor to acquaint you that on Satur-
day, the 7th inst., in the afternoon, after a forced march of
forty-five miles on that day and the night before, a detachment
from our little army of mountain men of about nine hundred,
tinder command of Col. William Campbell, came up with Col.
Ferguson, who lay encamped on King's Mountain.

The forenoon of the day was wet, but we were fortunate
enough to come on him undiscovered, and tool his pickets.
We were soon formed in such order as to attack the enemy on
all quarters. The Washington and Sullivan regiments began to
attack on the front and left flank ; the North Carolina regi-
ments, under Cols. Williams, Sevier and Cleveland, attacked the
rear and the other flank. The firing in about fifteen minutes
became general and was kept up with fury on both sides for
near an hour.

On the first onset the Washington militia attempted rapidly
to ascend the mountain, but were met by the British regulars
with fixed bayonets and forced to retreat. They were soon ral-
lied by their gallant commander and some of his active officers,
and by a constant and well directed fire of our rifles we drove
them back, in our turn, and reached the summit of the moun-
tain, where the enemy, being closely surrounded, surrendered
prisoners at discretion. Their commander, Col. Ferguson,
attempted, a little before the close of the action, to make his
escape on horseback, but was intercepted by a few riflemen of
the Sullivan regiment, and fell dead when forcing his way.

The post taken by the enemy gave them confidence that any
force the Americans could bring against them could not defeat

STATE RECOKDS.

them. Truely the situation of the ground gave them greatly
the advantage, as the mountain was high and exceedingly steep
in front, and interspersed along the top with craggy cliffs of
rocks ; in short, it was almost equal to storming regular works.
The inclosed list contains an account of the loss of the enemy.
Ours is small as to numbers, being about thirty killed & some-
thing over fifty wounded. Among the former are some brave
men of our best officers, whose services their country men ought
long to remember with gratitude.

GENL. GATES TO GOVERNOR JEFFERSON.

Hillsboeo, October 12, 1780.
Sir:
This instant I received the great and glorious news contained
in the enclosed letter from Brig. Gen. Davidson to Gen. Sum-
ner, who directly dispatched it to me by express. We are now
more than even with the enemy. The moment the supplies for
the troops arrive from Taylor's Ferry I shall proceed with the
whole to the Yadkin. Gen. Smallwood and Col. Morgan are on
their way to that post. The latter, with the Light Infantry,
was yesterday advanced eighteen miles beyond Guilford Court
House. The former, with the cavalry, lay last night thirteen
miles on this side of that place. I desire your Excellency will
dispatch copies of all letters I now send to the President of
Congress.

COL. ALEX. MARTIN TO DELEGATES OF NORTH CAROLINA.

[North Carolina State Papers, Vol. 72, P. 105.]

War-Offick, Hillsborough, Oct. 12th, 1780.
Gentlemen :
The great number of small arms our Militia lost in the late
Defeat near Camden, and our Magazines greatly7 exhausted, caused
the Board to address Govr. Jefferson on this Subject, that he
would supply this State with what Stands of arms could be spared
from Virginia. This day we have received his answer, which we

118 STATE EECOEDS.

have enclosed you, that none can be expected from thence ; hence
our next Resource" must be from Congress. A supply of 3 or
4,000 are immediately wanting. You will be pleased to Manage
this matter with Congress as your prudence will direct. Frocure
what you can and have them sent on with the utmost Expedition.
An account of Ferguson's Defeat you have enclosed with this
from Gen. Davidson.

I have the Honour to be,

By order, Gentlemen, your

Most obedient humble servant,

ALEX. MARTIN.

The Honble. Delegates of North Cauolina.

[Endorsed.] Letter from board of war of No. Carolina to
the delegates of that State, Oct. 12, 17S0. Read in Congress, 23.

COL. CAMPBELLS ORDERS OF THE DAT.

Parole — New Bern.

Camp at Col. Walker's, October 13, 1780.

The Deputy Quartermasters, under the direction of the Quar-
ter Master General, to dispose of the wounded of their respective
legiments, who are not aide to march with the army, in the best
manner they can, in the vicinity of this place.

The Quarter Masters to call upon the companies to which the
wounded belong for any necessary assistance for their removal.
-The Adjutants to wait upon the Brigade Major at six O'clock
every day for the orders. The army to march without fail by two
O'clock.

Camp at, .._._. , October 14, 1780.

The many desertions from the army, and consequent telonies
committed by those who desert, oblige me once more to insist that
proper regimental returns be made every morning, noting down
the names of those who desert, that such may hereafter be pun-
ished with the justice which their crimes deserve ; and officers
commanding regiments are requested not to discharge any of their
troops until we can dispose of the prisoners to a proper guard. The

STATE RECORDS. 119

Quarter Master General to see the ammunition taken from the
enemy properly issued to the troops, who have not yet drawn any
of it. The Commissary General is to send small parties before ns
upon our route to collect provisions ; and he is hereby empowered
to call upon the commanding officers of the different regiments
for such parties. It is with anxiety I hear the complaints of the
inhabitants on account of the plundering parties who issue out
from the camp, and indiscriminately rob both Whig and Tory,
leaving our friends, I believe, in a worse situation than the enemy
would have done. I hope the officers will exert themselves in
suppressing this abominable practise, degrading to the name of
soldier, by keeping their soldiers close in camp and preventing
their straggling off upon our marches.

October 13, 1780.

Honble. Thomas Burke, Esquire, Hillsboro, No. Carolina.

Mr. B._ _.. Compliments to Dr. Burke ; is sorry he cannot

have the pleasure of Breakfasting with him this Morning. He will
attend Mr. Penn as early as possible.

HUN. WM. SHAKPK TO DR. THOMAS BURKE.

13th October, 1780.
Sir:
Before this readies you Colo. Malmadie, who is gone to Hills-
borough, will inform you respecting Genl. Gates's recall, Genl.
Arnold's Treason, and in short all the intelligence that is current.
I expect Mr. Hill will write you largely, therefore 'shall only sug-
gest that our affairs here have no flattering aspect at present.

I am sorry to hear that there is no appearance of money from
the Board of Trade. Be so kind as to write to them and paint our
distresses here for want of money in high colours.
My compliments to Mrs. Burke.

Sir, Your most obt. Servt.,

WM. SHARPE.

120 STATE RECORDS.

JOHN LYNN TO HON. THOMAS BURKE.

Camp, 16th Oct., 1780.
The Honble Thos. Burke, Esqr.
Sib:

I am surprised and concerned to hear by Colo. Williams that
my Conduct when at your farm has been so Misrepresented that
you consider it as an injury and an offence. I'm persuaded, Sir.
that if you could know the particulai circumstances under which
I acted, your resentment con'd not be directed against me.

Genl. Smallwood issued a Brigade Order for the Quarter Master
to procure Straw and Corn Tops for Covering our Huts, and
parties were appointed for bringing those Articles to Camp. I
was ordered to take command of one of those parties, and went
by direction of the Q. Master to get Corn Tops in a Field. I was for-
bid executing my command by a man calling himself your Overseer,
who behaved with an Impertinence which nothing but the respect
I have for the privileges of a Citizen sho'd have prevented me
from punishing ; but, Feeling the delicacy of my Situation, I tho't
I acted with discretion in dismissing him with a rebuke, giving
him my name and saying I wo'd be answerable to his master if
called upon. I hope this representation of my Conduct, which I
give upon my Veracity, will convince you that I co'd have no
intention of injuring or insulting you, and that you will have a
more favourable Opinion of my Character, as I assure you I am very
Conscious of the Supremacy of the Civil power, and am convinced
the most essential service I can render my Country is to aid with
my last abilities the Establishment of that power on a permanent
foundation.

I am, Sir, yr. mo. obdt. Hble. Servt.,

JOHN LYNN.

STATE RECORDS.

HON. WILLIE JONES TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Oct. 18th, 1780.
Dr. Sir :

I wrote to yon of the 1st Oct. & 10th, to which I refer. The
Resolution of Congress, directing Genl. Washington to appoint an
officer to take the Command of the Southern Army instead of
Genl. Gates, was immediately sent to Head Quarters, but the
General has not informed Congress of his proceedings thereupon,
nor can I advise yon who will be appointed to that Command.
Genl. Gates sent ns dispatches three or four days ago, advising
that Ld. Cornwallis had penetrated our State as far as Charlotte.
These Dispatches were immediately forwarded to the Commander
in Chief, and I have some small hopes that he will be thereby
induced to detach some troops to the Southward, perhaps Lee's
Corps — for every. Idea of acting to the Northward is now laid
aside. However, lam not sanguine in this Expectation. We have
Reports every day of Reinforcements going from N. York either
to No. Carolina or Virginia, but nothing which can be depended
on. I hope both those States will consider it as a tiling certain
that Reinforcements will be sent from New York in the course of
the ensuing winter.

The News papers will inform you of the Capture of the British
Et. & Wt. India Fleets outward bound. A Letter to the Commer-
cial Committee gives a more authentick account, thus: The British
Fleet, consisting of 58 Sail, fell in with the combined Fleet in the
Night. The Ramillies and Thetis escaped to Madeira, where the
former remained eight days, and only four Merchantmen came in.
The Southampton Frigate escaped and brought the first Intelligence
to St. Kitts.

The Ramillies is since arrived at Jamaica. The Thetis was dis-
patched to give Adm. Geary Intelligence of the combined Fleet.
From these Circumstances it is conjectured that about 50 of the
British Ships were captured. I hope to leave this place in three
weeks, but this depends on Remittances from Carolina, for I have
long been out of Cash.

I am, with the greatest truth, Dr. Sir,

Your must obedt. & Humble Servt.,

WILLIE JONES.

STATE RECORDS.

P. S. It is said that Genl. Washington, upon Arnold's appoint-
ment to the Command at West point, gave him the names of
several Gentlemen of the first Rank in N. York, (thro' whom he
obtained Intelligence of Sir Henry Clinton's Motions,) together
with the Plan of Correspondence all which the execrable Villain
Arnold disclosed on his arrival at N. York, and the aforesaid Gen-
tlemen were consequently apprehended & confined in Irons, and,
if this be the case, will probably lose their Lives.

WILLIE JONES.

STATE RECORDS.

MISCELLANEOUS.

No. 1.

Subby County, Camp at )
Ceeson's, October 19th, 17S0. f
Orders. At 11 O'clock a Council of the North Carolina Offi-
cers present are desired to meet and Consult on such Measures as
are Expedient to be put in Immediate Execution against the Insur-
gents. The Gentlemen Officers from Virginia are to set in Coun-
cil if they think proper. Map Hunter will send a Sargent and
three privates to wait on the Council and Receive Orders.

MART. ARMSTRONG, C. C.

No. 2.

State of No. Cabolina, )
Sukky County. f

Camp at Abeaham Ceeson's, )
October 19th, 1780. j
Agreeable to the order of the day for all Field Officers and Cap-
tains to assemble in Council, their appears in Consequence of said
Order the following Officers (to-wit) :

Martin Armstrong, Colo. Comd.
Joseph Williams, Lieut, Col.

William Meridith, Capt. 1 Surry.

Samuel Henderson, Capt. [■ Guilford.

Abraham Penn, Colo. ~]

Peter Harston, Capt.

Samuel Harston, Do.

John Dillard, Do. \- Henry County Virginia.

Thomas Hush, Do.

James Poteat, Do.

James Terrents, Do.
It is the General Opinion of the above Officers that it be Recom-
mended to Colo. Martin Armstrong the Commanding Officer, that
he Issue his proclamation Requesting all those deluded people in
the County of Surry who have taken up anus against their Coun-
try, and in open Violation of the Laws thereof, that they come in

124 STATE RECORDS.

on or before the first day of November Next, and deliver their
Horses, Guns and Military Stores to Some officer that he may
appoint for that purpose, and for a farther Encouragement to said
People to Come, it is Required of the said Martin Armstrong that
he set fourth in said Notice that he will make use of all his Influ-
ence with the General Assembly of said State to Obtain pardon
for all those who Avail themselves Under his Proclamation.

SAM HARSTON, Capt. JO. WILLIAMS, L. Col.

JOHN DILLARD, Capt. WILLIAM MERIDITH, Capt.

THOS. BUSH, Capt. SAM HENDERSON, Capt.

JAMES POTEAT, Capt. ABRM. PENN, C. Y. Lt.

JAMES TERRENTS, Capt. PETER HARSTON, Capt.

No. 3.

State of Nokth Carolina, )
Stjrry County. j

Agreeable to an order of Council of the Officers present in
Camp at the Shallowford, October 19th, 1780, I hereby give
this Public Notice, Requesting and Commanding all those
deluded people in the Cot'y of Surry who have been Con-
cerned in the late Insurrection and taken up arms against
their Country, in Open Violation of the Laws thereof, to Come
to Richmond on or before the first day of November Next and
Deliver up all their Arms, Ammunition, Shotpouches, Horses,
Saddles, Bridles, &c, which they or any of them have taken
from the good people of the said County, or had in the field
of Battle at the Shallowford or elsewhere; Give Security for
their Good behavior, oe Subject to Such Other Rules, orders
and Regulations as the Commanding Officer shall think Requi-
site for the better Security of the Lives and properties of the
peaceable Inhabitants of said County and the Service of this and
the United States ; then and iu such Case I promise to make
Use of my Influence with the General Assembly of this State
to Obtain for all such A pardon.

MART. ARMSTRONG, J. P.

STATE RECORDS. 125

No. 4.

State of North Carolina, \
Suery County. j

This day Came before Martin Armstrong, one of the Justices
Assigned to keep the Peace in said County, those whose names
are hereto Subscribed, and made the following Acknowledgement,
to-wit :

We whose names are hereto Subscribed do hereby Acknowl-
edge ourselves jointly and severally- Bound unto Abner Nash,
Esqr., Governor of the State aforesaid, in the sum of Five Hun-
dred Thousand pounds Currency, or in Gold and Silver, to be
Levied of our Lands and Tenaments, Goods and Chatties, to be
void on Condition that we, and each of us, make Our Personal
Appearance at the Next Superior Court to be held for the Dis-
trict of Salisbury, at the Courthouse in Salisbury, on the

Day of , 17S0 ; then and there to Answer such bills of Indict-
ment as shall be preferred against us, Either for high Treason,
Misprision of Treason, or any Other Crimes, as shall be Alledged
against us during the time of the Late Insurrection,

In Testimony whereof we have, hereunto set our Hand and
seals the 24th clay of Oct., 1780.

Acknowledged & Subscribed to before

MARTIN ARMSTRONG, J. P.

No. 5.

State of North Carolina, )
Surry County. j

We the Subscribers do hereby Acknowledge Ourselves fairly
and Duly Inlisted into the Service of the State aforesaid for the
Space of Three Months or Longer, at the discretion of the Com-
mander-in-Chief, from the date hereof, or from the day that we
shall Rendezvous where the Commanding Officer shall direct; to
be subject to such Rules, Regulations, orders and Restrictions as
the Soldiers of this State are now bound to Observe, hereby
acknowledging due and full Satisfaction from said State in Con-
sideration of our Inlistment. We Likewise Obligate Ourselves to
March into any of the United States of America, and with free-
dom join any State or Continental Regiment that the Commander-

STATE RECORDS.

in-Chief may think Requisite for and During the time aforesaid;
and for the Due performance of the same we hereby bind each of
ourselves Seperately in the Sum of Ten Thousand Pounds Cur-
rency, to be paid to his Excellency Abner Nash, Esqr., Governor
of the State aforesaid.

In Testimony whereof we and each of Us have hereunto Set
our hands and Seals this 24th Day of October, 1780.

Acknowledged <fc subscribed to Before

MARTIN ARMSTRONG,

Colo. Surry Regt.

COL. WM. CAMPBELL TO COL. ARTHUR CAMPBELL.

AVilkes County, Camp on Brier Creek, )
October 20th, 17S0. j
Dear Sir :

Ferguson and his party are no more in circumstances to injure
the citizens of America. We came up with him in Craven County
in South Carolina, posted on a height called King's Mountain,
about twelve miles north of the Cherokee Ford on Broad River,
about two O'clock in the evenii.g of the 7th inst.j we having
marched the whole night before. Col. Shelby's regiment and mine
began the attack, and sustained the' whole fire of the enemy for
about ten minutes, while the other troops were forming around
the height upon which the enemy were posted. The firing became
general, and as heavy as you can conceive for the number of men.
The advantageous situation of the enemy, being the top of the
steep ridge, obliged us to expose ourselves exceedingly, and the
dislodging of them was almost equal to driving men from strong
breastworks, though in the end we gained the point of the ridge,
where my regiment fought, and drove them along the summit of
it to the other end, where Col. Cleveland and his countrymen were.
They were driven into a huddle, and the greatest confusion ; the
flag for a surrender was immediately hoisted, and as soon as our
troops could be notified of it the firing ceased, and the survivors
surrendered themselves prisoners at discretion.

We fought an hour and five minutes, in which time two hun-

STATE RECORDS.

dred and twenty-five were killed of the enemy, and one hundred
and thirty wounded ; the rest, making about seven hundred regu-
lars and Tories, were taken prisoners. Ferguson was killed near
the close of the action. The victory was complete to a wish ; and
I think it was won by about seven hundred men who fought bravely.
I have lost several of my brave friends, whose death I lament much.
Maj. Edmonson will give you their names, though I must myself
mention Capt. Edmondson, his two brothers, and Lieut Bowen.
My regiment has suffered more than any other in the action. Our
loss in the field was, altogether, about thirty killed and sixty
wounded. I must proceed on with the prisoners untill I can in
some way dispose of them. Probably I may go on to Richmond
in Virginia.

WILLIAM CAMPBELL.

GEN. WM. DAVIDSON TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Camp Six Mile Creek, October 22nd, 1780.

10 O'clock A. M.
His Excellency Abner Nash, Governor, Newbern.
Sir:
The Enemy have retreated as far as the Waxhaws, & have
shown a Disposition for crossing Catawba ever since they left
Charlotte on the Evening of the 12th Inst. Desertion prevails
among their Militia, & some few have come over to us from the
Legion. The disaffected Inhabitants in the Rear of the Enemy
discover great inclination to fall back under our protection ifc
government. Application had been made for this purpose before
they knew of the evacuation of Charlotte. Many of those deluded
people wish for an overture of grace, & perhaps it may be for the
general good to indulge them with it. As the matter appears
important, I shall be happy in receiving Directions from your
Excellency in the Case. As something immediate seemed neces-
sary, the Inclosed will show what Measures I have adopted in the
mean Time.

128 STATE RECORDS.

The British are about 20 miles in my Front. Generals Small-
wood & Morgan I expect in to Day.
I am respectfully, Sir,

Your most obedt. & most Humble Servt.,

WM. DAVIDSON.

3 o'clock P.M.
By Major Dickens, just from the Enemy's Lines, we find that their
troops have all crossed the Catawba at Lands Ford, ±± Miles above
Ca-nden. As the British were superior in Horse, our Cavalry
were some days since drawn off from the persuit.

GEN. THOS. BENBURY TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Edenton, 22nd Oct., 1780.

To His Excellency Abner Nash, Newbern.
Sib:

I have this moment received information that the Enemy are
landing forces at Kemp's Landing in Virginia. I have, in conse-
quence of this information, sent an Express in order to learn their
movements. I have also dispatched letters to the different Colos.
in my district, requiring them to have their regiments equipped in
the best manner they can, and to hold themselves in readiness to
march on the shortest notice. I have likewise wrote to Col. Long
for one thousand stand of arms, if to be spared, we not having one
Hundred good Muskets in the district. I hope all this will meet
your Excellency's approbation, and that you will direct how I am
further to proceed. My information says there are sixty Sail of
Vessels, but the number of troops not known.

I am to inform your Excellency that last Monday two large
Gallies with sliding Gunter mast, with, as was judged, about 60
men in each, came over Roanoke Bar and went through the
marshes. On receiving this information the Town of Edenton
sent out a Boat to reconnoitre, which is not yet returned. The
town have been under an alarm e\-er since this information
came up. We this Moment learn that fireing was heard last
night the occasion of which we know not, but conjecture it to be
some of the homeward bound Vessels who have fallen in with these

STATE RECORDS.

Gallies. I shall keep your Excellency informed from time to time
of what happens in this quarter.

I have the Honor to be, Sir,

Your most obedt. & very humble Servt.,

THOS. BENBURY, B. G. P. I

ROB. SMITH TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Edenton, 23rd Oct., 1780.
His Excellency Abner Nash, Esqr., Newbern.
Sir:
Captain Bogg, who came in here early in Augt., with a Flag
from Bermuda, and was admitted, sent his Flag to your Excel-
lency to Newbern, but it arrived after you left it, and it fell into
the hands of Col. Leech. Your Excellency permitted Mrs. Brimage
to go to her husband ; to bring her was the chief Business this
Flag was sent on, and she has been now some considerable time
with her Family ready and waiting, and the vessel lays at a con-
siderable expence. All these considerations induce me to take the
liberty to request your Excellency to send by return of the Bearer,
Capt. Hall, the Flag, or in case it should be mislaid, such Certifi-
cate or other Instrument of writing as may by your Excellency be
thought sufficient for Captain Bogg to proceed safely to Bermuda
with. I beg your pardon for this intrusion.

Having the Honour to be, Your Excellency's

Most Obedt. and very Humble Servt.,

ROB. SMITH.
P. S. The two last Gallies came over Roanoke Bar turn out to be
from Philadelphia, bound on a cruize off Castle Bar, & are gone
through the sound. R. S.

ROB. SMITH TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Edenton, 24th Oct., 1780.
To His Excellency Abner Nash, Governor, Newbern.
Dear Sir :
I have certain intelligence, from Virginia that last Sunday even
15—9

STATE RECORDS.

ing the Enemy landed at Portsmouth to the amount of one Thou-
sand men & upwards. They came in sixty Sail of Vessels. It
seems their intention is to march through this State to form a junc-
tion with Lord Cornwallis. They sent in two hundred men into
Princess Ann County, and plundered it totally and drove in the Cat-
tle. They took Mr. Thorrowgood & Mr. Wake, with several other
valuable citizens, and carried them on Board the Fleet, to send
them, as is supposed, to some other Country to be tried. Genl.
Kelson was down at the time they came in, and used all the
endeavours he could with the Militia, offering to head them him-
self if they would turn out, but he met with so little encouragement
he had come up to Suffolk yesterday & on his way to Richmond
to hasten down some Regular Troops that are there, but I am afraid
they will come too late ; I fancy Benbury has ordered the Militia
of the district to assemble, but they want arms, and their move-
ments are so slow, officers & men, that my hopes from them, I must
confess, is not the most sanguine, and as this place is said to be one
of their objects, I fear they will but too cheaply obtain it. We are
preparing to make the best opposition we can, but, God knows,
unaided, unsupported, the small number of In habi tan. s of this Town
cannot carry their opposition far.

1 have sent an Express to the Great Bridge to see if that post is
still in our possession. Should that be the case, we could, I think,
maintain it against all the force they have yet landed. I fancy
the Genl. will write you and crave hard for Council, Aid & assist-
ance ; but as I was not certain of it I took the liberty to write you
this line, thinking your Excellency would be anxious to know how
matters stood this way.

The last account I had from the Great Bridge it was in our pos-
session; we had several pieces of Artillery mounted there, and a
small Garrison Collected from the different Counties round it.
It's a very tenable and very important Post.

I have the Honour to be, with much respect,

Your Excellency's most obedt. H. Servt.,

ROB. SMITH.

STATE RECORDS.

GEN. R. CASWELL TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Newbern, Oct. 26, 1780.
Sir:
The General Assembly in May last did me the Honor of appoint-
ing me to the Command of the Militia then ordered into service;
they also thought proper to appoint me one of the Board of Com-
missioners for Carrying on Trade for the benefit of the State. In
their late Session they were pleased to Dismiss me from the Com-
mand of the Militia, And 'tis probable they would also have Dis-
missed me from the Board of Trade had it occurred to them that
I had been appointed a Member. As it is not in my inclination to
give that Body displeasure, and as I have not received any money
from the Public on that Account, or entered on the Business other-
wise than by Barely Qualifying, I natter myself your Excellency
will be pleased to accept my resignation of the appointment of
Commissioner of the Board of Trade, and consider this as iny
resignation accordingly.

I have the Honor to be,

"With great respect, Sir, Your Excellency's
Most obedient & very Humble Servant,

R. CASWELL.

WASHINGTON'S GENERAL ORDER.

Headquarters, Totowat, October 27, 1780.

The General has the pleasure to congratulate the army on an
important advantage lately gained in North Carolina over a corps
of fourteen hundred men, British troops and new levies, com-
manded by Col. Ferguson.

The militia of the neighboring Country, under Cols. Williams,
Shelby and others, having assembled to the number of about
three thousand men, a detachment of about sixteen hundred
was sent on horseback to fall in with Ferguson's party on its
march to Charlotte. They came up with the enemy at a place

STATE EECOEDS.

called King's Mountain, advantageously posted, and gave him
a total defeat, in which Col. Ferguson and a hundred and fifty
of his men were killed, eight hundred made prisoners, and fifteen
hundred stand of arms taken. On our part, the loss was incon-
siderable. We have only to regret that the brave Col. Williams
is mortally wounded.

These advantages will, in all probability, have a very happy
influence on operations in that quarter, and are a proof of the
spirit and resources of the country.

THE BATTLE OF KING'S MOUNTAIN— A FRAGMENT.

By Col. Arthur Campbell.
Soon after the defeat of the American Army under Gen. Gates,
the British Commander in South Carolina made arrangements to
invade North Carolina and Virginia. With this view he organ-
ized a corps of the upland Tories, mostly riflemen, and attached
to them two companies of his regular troops, giving the com-
mand of the whole to Maj. Patrick Ferguson of the Seventy-first
regiment, an intelligent officer, and well calculated for a separate
command. The corps on the first outset amounted to two thou-
sand men. Orders were also sent to the British Indian agents to
excite the Indians to invade the American settlements west of the
mountains, and if practicable to proceed as far as Chiswell's
Lead Mines and destroy the works and stores at that place.
The main body, commanded bjr Cornwallis in person, was to
move along the central road, by way of Salisbury, and form a
junction with Ferguson before he entered Virginia. Ferguson's
detachment began the operation by marching towards the mount-
ains, and on his way met with a small regiment of North Caro-
lina militia, commanded by Charles and Joseph McDowell. They
were attacked and soon dispersed, but the Col. and Maj., with a
part of the men, chose, rather than submit, to pass over the
Appalachian mountains and take refuge among their Whig Breth-
ren on the western waters. They arrived in the settlement on
Watauga River, without their families, to the number of about
one hundred and fifty men. Their tale was a doleful one, tending

STATE RECORDS. 133

to excite the resentment of the western militia, who of late had
become inured to danger by fighting the Indians, and who had an
utter detestation of the tyranny of the British Government.

At this period,. early in September, the County Lieutenant of
Washington was in Richmond. There he had an interview with
the Governor of Virginia, who detailed the circumstances of Gen.
Gates' defeat, the measures about to be taken to retrieve the late
misfortune and to expel the enemy from our country, and that
vigorous resistance evei-y where would soon put an end to the war.
On the return of the County Lieutenant, Col. Isaac Shelby, of
North Carolina, sent to him a trusty mes.enger to inform him of
the progress of Ferguson and the retreat of McDowell's corps,
and also to enquire whether it would be prudent to make an effort
to enable the exiles to recross the mountains and return to their
own "homes. Mr. Adair, the messenger, was told the Governor's
sentiments on the subject of Gates' defeat, and the efforts that
would soon be made by ordei of Congress to check the progress
of the enemy ; and he was also assured that if the Western Coun-
ties of North Carolina would raise a force to join Col. McDowell's
men that the officers of Washington County would co-operate to
aid their friends to return home.

A consultation was soon had with the field officers, and a reso-
lution agreed on, to order half the militia of Washington County
into actual service, under the command of Col. William Camp-
bell. All ranks seemed animated with the same spirit, and the
quota was raised and equipped in a few days.

An Express was sent to Col. Cleveland, of Wilkes County,
North Carolina, to let. him know what was going on, and to march
all the men he could raise, to rendezvous at an appointed place on
the east side of the mountains. Cols. Shelby and Sevier acted
their part, with like promptitude, in the western counties of North
Carolina, and the whole met at Col. McDowell's encampment on
Watauga.

On the twenty eighth (twenty sixth) of September our little
army took up its line of march, and the third day in the evening
reached the other side, without any opposition from the enemy.
Two days afterwards Col. Cleveland joined his corps to the main
body, and the day afterwards Col. Williams, with three companies
of volunteers from South Carolina.

134 STATE RECORDS.

A council of officers was held, and it was agreed that Col. Will-
iam Campbell, of Virginia, should take command of the whole
and pursue the enemy. Col. Ferguson, after dispersing such
parties of the North Carolina militia as were embodied, followed
Col. McDowell's men as far as the foot of the great mountains,
and after taking some prisoners, and coliecting a drove of beeves,
he made a hasty retreat to King's Mountain, in order to be nearer
the main army, and on account of the strong encampment that
might be formed on the top of it. Our newly elected commander
reviewed his men, and selected all that were fit for service of the
mounted infantry, and ordered the footmen to follow as they might
be able to hold out.

Those who have been familiar with the principal officers who
fought on King's Mountain, and those who fought at Cowpens,
will readily pronounce that the latter was a mere skirmish com-
pared with the arduous affair on King's Mountain. There our
heroes had to act as a forlorn hope, storm the enemy's camp, defend-
ed by superior numbers and disciplined troops. The Virginia
Regiment alone had more killed than the whole of Gen. Morgan's
corps. This proves where the hard fighting was, more than the
pompons tale of a partial historian. It was Ferguson's defeat
that was the first link in a grand chain of causes which finally
drew down ruin on the British interest in the Southern States, and
finally terminated the war of the Revolution.

It has been remarked why so small a number of the Americans
were killed at King's Mountain, compared with the loss of the
enemy. Our officers accounted for it in this way : The Tories
occupied much the least space of ground, and of course were more
thickly planted than the extended circle of Americans around
them, so that the fire of our men seldom failed doing execution ;
besides, when the Virginia regiment reached the summit of the
hill, the enemy was crowded, making their retreat to the other
end, without returning a shot; and when they were driven into
a huddle by meeting the fire of Col. "Williams' division, they
received a heavy fire before our troops could be notified of the
surrender.

STATE RECORDS.

AN ACCOUNT OF THE MARCH AND BATTLE OF KING'S
MOUNTAIN.

(By an unknown member of Campbell's regiment.)
On hearing of a large body of British and Tories assembled in
North Carolina, under the command of Col. Ferguson, and threat-
ening to visit Holston river, on the 22d September, 1780, two
hundred and fifty of the militia of Washington County, Virginia,
were ordered out under the command of Col. Willi-am Campbell,
and rendezvouzed on Watauga, where they were joined by three
hundred and fifty men from the western part of North Carolina,
under the comi-nand of Col. Sevier and Col Isaac Shelby, together
with a party of on.e hundred and fifty men, under the command
of Col. Charles McDowell, who had been driven over the mount-
ains by Col. Ferguson. While we were .yet at the place of ren-
dezvous, Col. Arthur-Campbell, believing; that there was not a suf-
ficient force to successfully engage with the enemy, ordered out
and came on with two hundred more of the Washington militia,
and joined us at Watauga. Col. Arthur Campbell returned home
to take care of the frontiers, which were left bare of men, & were
in danger of being attacked by the Indians, who were near neigh-
bors. A council was held to select a commander, and it was unani-
mously given to Col. William Campbell. We began our march
from Watauga on the 27th of September, with nine hundred and
fifty men. With a very bad road, we were four days in passing
the mountains, when we arrived at the settlements of North Caro-
lina ; and the next day we were joined by Col. Cleveland, from
Wilkes County, and Major Winston, from Surry, with four hun-
dred men. From there we proceeded on, living mostly on parched
corn. We left four hundred footmen behind, not being able to
keep up with the horse, and the fifth (sixth) of October joined
Col. Williams, and some Georgia troops, being about three hun-
dred and fifty. From Col. Williams' camp we set out about dark,
and traveled all that night, expecting to attack the enemy at day
break, but Col. Ferguson, sometime before hearing of our coming,
retreated and took an advantageous position at a place called
King's Mountain, where the enemy thought they were safely
posted, and sent to Cornwallis for a re-inforcement. But Col.
Campbell proceeded so precipitately on his march that wecameon

STATE RECORDS.

thein with surprise, on the 7th of October, the sun being about an
hour & half high.

Col. Campbell ordered Col. Williams and Col. Cleveland to
the left and Col. Shelby for a reserve, and attacked on the right
himself, making the first onset, but the action soon became
general, Col. Williams and Col. Cleveland acting with great
bravery on the left. Col. Ferguson ordered a charge to be made
on the Virginia regiment, which forced some of, them to retreat a
short distance, but they were rallied again, and the enemy fell so
fast they were obliged to retire to the top of the mountain. Col.
Shelby with the reserve came up, and in about half an hour the
enemy was surrounded. Too much cannot be said in praise of
our brave commander, who exerted himself animating the men to
victory. We advanced on the enemy and broke their lines, but
they wererallied three .times by Col. Ferguson, but to no effect,
our men pressing so close on them on every side ; at length that
active British officer, losing all hopes of victory, thought with some
others to break through our lines and. get off, but fell in the
attempt, Col. Ferguson having two balls through his body and one
through his head. The enemy then soon surrendered. The
action lasted an hour and five minutes. The enemy had about
two hundred and thirty dead on the ground and a number
wounded. We lost some brave officers, and about thirty-five lay
dead on the ground. The enemy mostly overshot us as we
marched up the mountain. It was dark again we got the
prisoners under guard. Cornwallis had sent Tarleton with four
hundred dragoons to re-inforce Col. Ferguson, but hearing of his
retreat returned.

COL. ALEX. MARTIN TO GOV. ABKER NASH.

His Excellency Gov. Nash, Newbern.

War Office, Hillsborough, Oct. 27th, 1780.
Sir :
By the accounts received from Virginia, with which you must
be acquainted before this, it seems that the Enemy mean to
manoeuvre in that quarter again. From the number of only
twenty-five, or even Sixty Transports, as mentioned by Col. Ben-
bury, their intentions must be to procure Provisions, of which

STATE RECORDS.

they stand in great need. The Governor of Virginia mentions to
Genl. Gates Five Thousand, but this lie is not certain of. How-
ever, should they be serious to invade Virginia in force, this State
must endeavour to render such Assistance to her as can be
obtained at present to prevent an invasion from thence ; And for
this purpose the Board beg leave to recommend to your Excel-
lency that the Drafts from Newbern and Edenton be employed
against the Enemy in Virginia. Should they continue any Time,
and additional Aid be requisite, Halifax, Newbern and Edenton
must furnish them, as the upper Districts, with Wilmington, have
their Hands full at present with the Western Enemy.

Our affairs still ware a good appearance with Lord Cornwallis.
Nothing Material from Genl. Smallwood since our last.
I have the Honour to be,

By order, with great Respect,

Your Excellency's most humble Servt.,

ALEX. MARTIN, Pres't.

GEN. THOMAS BENBURY TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Edenton, 30th Oct., 17S0.
Sir:
I have this moment, by the return of one of my Expresses, rec'd
a Letter from Colo. Sent", Copy which take the liberty to inclose.
You will see by that letter we are in a fair way to be overrun by
the Enemy. This morning I was informed by express that 300
last evening of the Enemy had marched for South quay, and that
one thousand were under march for this place from Suffolk. We
have made a stand at Norfleet's Mill, about 35 miles from this place,
with the few Militia that will turn out, but I am sorry to say I
never saw or expected to see men so backward ; they seem ready-
made slaves. The town turn out pretty well, hut they are worn
out; they expect all to be ruined. I left Camp this morning, and
am this moment to set out on my return. For Godsake, for the
sake of that Liberty we are contending for, give us every aid yon
can.

I have the1 Honour to be,

Your Excellency's most obedt. Servt.,

THOS. BENBURY, B. G.

138 STATE RECORDS.

LIEUT. COL. HARDY MURFREE TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Murfree's Landing, 1st November, 17S0.
To His Excellency Abner Nash.
Dear Sir :

The Enemy landed at Old N. Town 500 men; 250 Marched to-
Suffolk Friday Morning, and the Other 250 Marched to Milners;
since that they have had a reinforcement from Portsmouth, but of
how many I could not hear. They are very Active in Collecting
Horses, Saddles & Bridles & Provisions. Our Army is but small.
AVe retreated without firing a shott ; only the Advance Guard gave
Two or three fires. It was on Sunday, 8 Miles above Jo. Scott's, on
the road Towards Southamton Court house. "We had then in field
250 Men, and Genl. Muhlenburg was at Cabin Point with 1,500
men, 27th Oct., and on his way down. From the best information
could be got from Deserters, &c.,the Enemies' whole force is Only
2,200 men at Portsmouth, Suffolk & Milners, and between 50 &
60 Sail of Shipping, and between 30 or 40 of which are Top Sail
Vessels. I was down near Suffolk and with our Army on Satur-
day and Sunday last, and the above is what I had from the Com-
manding Officer and Gentlemen who are Inhabitants of that part
of the Country. A great many Negroes goes to the Enemy.

I have enlisted a party of Volunteers to go to Virginia. The most
of them are the principle Gentlemen in this County, and the County
Light Horse men have agreed to go. These Volunteers have no
Swords nor Pistols ; if you have any Swords and Pistols, should be
glad you will send by the bearer sixty Swords and sixty brass
Pistolls, orasmany as you can spare, and they will be returned after
Expedition is Over. The Volunteers are Light horse men and
Musketts are very unhandy. I have only forty men as yet. There
is to be a General Muster and a Draught to day, and expect to have
a good many more turn out as Volunteers. I shall March to mor-
row over the River at Winton, and shall wait within a few miles
of that place until I hear from you.

I heard that upwards of 200 Volunteers are marched from
Edenton towards Suffolk, which party I expect to join in a few
days.

I am, Dear Sir, your most Humble Servant,

HARDY MURFREE.

STATE RECORDS.

GEN. H. W. HARRINGTON TO THE BOARD OF WAR.

Camp Near Kershaw's Feert,
East Side P. D., November 3rd, 1780.
The Honble. The Board of War, Hillsborough.
Gentlemen :
Your favor of the 28th Ulto. came to hand in due time, but I
have not as yet been favoured with an answer to my Letter by
Col.'T. "Wade and I have not heard for some time from Col.
Brown a (torrrout) two Expresses to Bladen County, but from his
thorough honesty and attachment to the Cause lam sure He has
not been, but then the Cattle he has collected must go by the way
of Cross Creek & to Hillsborough, where I apprehend our Friends
from Virginia and Maryland will want them. I have a consider-
able Body of Horse on the West side of the Pedee, with the triple
view of alarming or harassing the Enemy on their Retreat, gain-
ing intelligence, and on their return, collecting of Beeves for the
ase "four Army near Salisbury or Charlotte, which Beeves I shall
send by the Anson Militia. I have ordered .out the So. Militia
for the collection of Cattle, which from the information I have
received, I am in hopes will be in tolerable plenty. Fat hogs are to
be had here in great numbers; Barrels and Salt are all that are
wanted, and as the first cannot be made in an instant, for the Tim-
ber must be seasoned. My zeal for the Cause we are all equally
engaged in induced me to give more than my orders from the
Board, and to appoint a younggentleman, a resident of these parts
as Purchasing Commissary on this River and So. Carolina, and
gave him orders to engage Staves and Barrels, to begot, seasoned
and made with the greatest expedition: also Barrels to hold Corn-
meal, of which the greatest abundance may be had here, provided it
can be gathered in time. My friend, AVm. Pegues (?) Esquire, will,
I am certain, act in the most upright and conscientious manner.
I have had the pleasure of his acquaintance many Years. He
always accompanied me in the held against the Enemy whilst I
was a citizen of So. Carolina, & behaved like a virtuous Christian
and good officer; in short I will be his security in any Sum for the
right discharge of the trust reposed in him & shall esteem myself
obliged to the Hon. Board to confirm his appointment. Mr. Pegue's
Certificates will be sufficient for the Beef, Pork and corn, but
money must be had to pay the workmen who get the staves and

140 STATE RECORDS.

make the Barrels. At the time I first heard of Brig. Gen. David-
son's appointment, the Enemy were advancing towards the Che-
raws, and it was expected would attempt to Invade this State by
the way of Cross Creek, where I then had the Honour to Command;
and altho' I was determined, from the moment I heard of the said
appointment to resign, yet I could not think of so doing until our
insolent Enemy were obliged to Retreat. I acquainted His Excel-
lency the Gov. and the Hon. Maj. Gen. Gates with my Intentions
& determination. The time I waited for is now arrived, and I
have the happiness to know that the last of our Foe has been
obliged to retreat, and that by our own exertions. With regard
to my said early Determination, I now beg leave to be permitted to
resign my Commissiou of Brigadier General of Salisbury District,
Pro tern., which the Last Session of Assembly were not willing I
should hold, as clearly appears by Gen Davidson's Appointment.
For my part, I am content, and I can assert with the strictest regard
to Truth that, so this my Country is but faithfully Served, it is
equal to me whether it be by me or by another. Colo. Kenan's
Regiment of Cavalry are but weak in regard to numbers ; they are
fine fellows and well officered, and have near three months to
serve. Col. Thomas Taylor's Cavalry is much more numerous,
the Officers exceeding well disposed to do every service to their
Country, the men fine fellows, but too much inclined to plunder,
tho' restrained by their Officers. They are entitled to their dis-
charge by the 20th Inst. One of the Nine Companies of Infantry
now with me must have theirs by the 17th, four other Companies
by the 24th, and the three last by the 2nd of December, Add to this
that it is with difficulty and slowly that I collect the Draughts"
from Anson, Montgomery & Richmond ; those from the first are
almost all gone to the Enemy, as are many from the other two
counties, yet I shall, with the utmost cheerfulness & assiduity, con-
tinue to collect the said Draughts and to answer the Yiews of the
Board of War in other respects, until the time of these last Compa-
nies of Infantry is expired, by or before which time I hope the
Board of War will instruct me with whom to leave the Command.
Col. James Kenan, of Duplin County, who commands the first Reg-
iment of Horse, is a good & spirited officer, and in my poor opin-
ion would answer well the Intentions of the Board at this Post,
but this must be left to your good judgment. I would now

STATE RECOEDS.

inclose my Commission, but will continue acting in this advanced
Post without it till the General Assembly speaks (torn out) however
I will wait on the Board at Hillsborough and leave it, on my way
to my family on Roanoke.

I have the honor to be, Gentlemen,

Your most obedt. Humble Servt.,

H. W. HARRINGTON.

COL. ISAAC SHELBY TO HIS FATHER, GEN. EVAN SHELBY.

[From Virginia Gazette, November 4th, 1780.]
1 have herewith the pleasure to acquaint yon that on Saturday,
the 7th inst.j in the afternoon, we came up with Ferguson and his
crew, who lay encamped on top of King's Mountain. The day
was wet, and that Providence who always rules and governs all
things for the best, so ordered it that we were close around them
before we were discovered, and formed in such position so as to
fire on them nearly about the same time, though they heard us in
time to form, and stood ready. The battle continued warm for
an hour ; the enemy, rinding themselves so embarrassed on all sides,
surrendered themselves to us prisoners at discretion. They had
taken post at that place with the confidence that no force could
rout them. The mountain was high and exceedingly steep, so
that their situation gave them greatly the advantage; indeed, it
was almost equal to storming a battery. In most places we could
not see them till we were in twenty yards of them. They repelled
us three times with charged bayonets, but being determined to
conquer or die, we came up a fourth time and fairly got posses-
sion of the top of the eminence. Our loss I have not exactly col-
lected, as the camp has been in such disorder but believe the
killed to be about thirty-five men, and between fifty and sixty
wounded.

A list of the killed, wounded and prisoners of the British :
Killed, Maj. Ferguson, one Captain, two Surgeons and twenty-
six privates; Wounded, one Lieutenant and twenty-seven pri-
vates ; Prisoners, one Captain, five Lieutenants, one Surgeon ami
fifty privates.

142 STATE RECORDS.

Tories Killed : Two Colonels, two Captains and one hundred
and twenty-five privates. Wounded : One hundred and twenty-
five ; Prisoners, one Colonel, one Major and twelve Captains,
eleven Lieutenants, two Ensigns, two Adjutants, one Commissary.,
one Quarter Master, eighteen Sergeants and six hundred privates:
Total, one thousand and sixteen ; and seventeen baggage wag-
gons and twelve hundred stand of arms taken.

Our loss of killed and wounded: Col. Williams, of South Caro-
lina, Capt. Edmonson and five Lieutenants of Virginia and
twenty-three privates of the different States. Wounded fifty-four
of the different States.

GEN. THOS. BENBURY AND OTHERS TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

His Excellency Abner Nash, Governor, &c., Newbern :

Camp at Norfleet's Mill, November 4th, 17S0.
Sir:
At a Council of War held this day at Head "Quarters, at which
all the field Officers of the Camp assisted, the Council, among
other things, took into Consideration the Conduct of Col. James
Blount, of the County of Chowan, and are unanimously of Opin-
ion that, as he formerly resigned his Command to Genl. Gregory,
& for some time Refused and Desisted to Act as Col. of the s'd
County, he has no right to resume it at pleasure, & that his attempt-
ing so to do is Injurious to those who have steadily persevered in
their duty, and ought therefore to take the rank of one who has
often, if not always, Neglected to do his. We therefore Beg your
Excellency will take this matter under your Consideration &
Comply with the request made by Colo. Blount to Genl. Gregory
by appointing some other Person Colo, of the County of Chowan
in his Room.

iCharles Blount is Lieut. Colo.
We are, Sir,

Yr. Excellency's mo. obedt. Servts.,

THOS. BENBURY, B. G.

THOS. HARVEY, Colo.

LAW. BAKER, Colo.

THOS. HUNTER, S. M.

(Torn out) S. M.

(Torn out) Capt. Comd.

STATE RECORDS. 143

LIEUT. COL. H. MURFREE TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Suffolk, November 5th, 1780.
To His Excellency Gov. Nash
Sie :
The Enemy, supposed to be in number between seven and Eight
hundred, Marched on the 27th of Last Month to Suffolk, & a
Party likewise came to the western Branch, Collected all the stock
they possibly con'd, took & Destroyed "a nuirther of Vessels, &
then they retreated towards Portsmouth on the 30th Inst., as far as
Doct. Hall's, 16 miles from this, where their advanced Guard is.
When I was down on the Enemy's Lines, the 28th & 29th of last
month, the Enemy's whole force -was 2,200 Men at Portsmouth,
Suffolk & Milner's, & between 50 & 60 Sail of Shipping, but this
Moment one Mr. John Giles came in & left Portsmouth this Morn-
ing ; he reporteth that he saw One Thousand Men land at Ports-
mouth last Thursday ; like wise there is more Troops on Board
the Shipping. He says they intend going up some of the Rivers
& March to Halifax, if possible, with some of the Troops. They
intend Leaving some at Portsmouth. Some of them are now at
the Great Bridge. They are now intending Portsmouth, & he
believes there is 3,000 Troops in that Town, & SO or 90 Sail of
Shipping at Portsmouth & Hampton Road. Gen. Muhlenburg is
at Mackey's Mills, 18 miles from this, 3 Miles from Smithfield,
with 1,900 Men, which is all the Men that is now in the Field in
this State. I rec'd your Excellency's Favour the 2nd Inst. &
inarched the 3rd from Winton, with 30 Gentlemen Volunteers
from Hertford Co'nty, to join Genl. Benbury at Norfleet's Mill,
35 Miles from Edentou, on the road to Suffolk, but on my coming
to that place yesterday found the Militia Discharged & the Genl.
Gone. In the Evening I rec'd a Letter from Genl. Gregory, a
Copy of which is inclosed. My party is on their way to Camden
County. I rode down here to-Day to get the latest Intelligence
from General Muhlenburg, but not finding him here shall follow
my [iarty To-morrow. There is a great number of the Negroes
goes into them. This is all I know, from the best Intelligence, &
believe it to be True; so conclude with saying,
I am, with all due respect,

Your Excellency's Humble Servt.,

H. MURFREE.

STATE RECORDS.

N. B. Mr. Giles heard nothing of the Enemy's moving towards
Currituck, in Carolina. He is a man generally thought to be an
Honest, good Meaning Man, who unfortunately Lost 8 Negroes, &
has been to Portsmouth after them, & has got only 5.

H. M.
N. B. Major General Darlie Commands the Whole. The
Scotch Refugees who left this Country is now with him at
Portsmouth, Goodrich, Parson Agera & sundry others.

H. M.

COL. JN. CHRISTN SENF TO BRIO. GENL. BENBURY.

Camp at Great Swamp, November 5th, 1780.

Dear General :

Through the neglect and slow movements of these Gentlemen,

Officers and Inhabitants, your express ordered to join me, and by

the superiority of the Enemy am likewise drove off from N. W.

River Bridge, the 3rd, in the morning at day break. The Enemy,

with.. (torn out).. their way at a passage over logs called the

Burn (torn out) where I had stationed 50 Virginians.

They attacked them suddenly, and, having good Guides, they
passed that defile before I cou'd have notice of it. Of course all
that I could do was to quit the other post, which, when dispersed
of eight miles distance, draw them together, march and oppose
them if possible ; but hardly cou'd I get together 140 men of
Virginians and No. Carolinians, and was liable of being cut off
from the great Swamp. I sent off 40 Men to that Pass. Few
of the Volunteer Light Horse and some on Foot skirmished with
the Enemy. The Enemy advanced, and the greatest part of the
Men were looking for their Retreat. I hardly cou'd muster 60
Men in all at the Great Swamp, And since that Time I have
become less, by Desertions. I hardly have 30 men in all. Yester-
day I was at the County of Currituck & Indian Town, which is
28 miles from here. I have ordered the Militia of Currituck

and -(torn out) — of Camden to make a stand at Tulley's

Creek, but I don't know if they can muster 40 Men with arms,
and the Inhabitants are much discontented by reconnoitring the

STATE RECORDS.

County. I think with 300 Men the County still Cou'd be
defended against a considerable force. If you have any Men,
you'd best send them immediately, or I am afrade it will be
attended with bad consequences. I likewise beg to order another
Officer to take Command of this Place, that I may join the Army
again where I may be of more use than at present at this Sta-
tion. By all Information, the Enemy has between 3 or 400 Men
at No. W. River, in different places. None of our Men got Hurt
except Capt. Pain, who Commanded the Volunteer Light Horse.
He had his arm broke by a shot. Two of the Enemy were killed
and several wounded. As I have no more paper, I beg you'l
inclose this to his Excellency Governor Nash.
I am, with due respect.

Your Most Obedt. Servt.,

JN. CHRISTN SENF,

Colonel Engineers.

CHARLES MOORE AND JOSHUA CAMPBELL'S RESIGNATION.

[From the MS. Records in the Office of the Secretary of State.]

November 6th, 17S0.
Dear Sik :
I am informed there is a necessity for a draft of officers to turn
out immediately. I understand you draft for officers on Saturday
next. I am in such a poor State of health that I am not able to do
the public the service I would wish, but Capt. John Harvey is will-
ing to turn out as a volunteer on my Resigning my Commission
to him, which will save the trouble of drafting a first major, on
which terms I Resign in favour to Captn. John Harvey.
I am, Sii*,

Your very Humble Servt.,

CHARLES MOORE.

15—10

STATE RECORDS.

PETITION OF CERTAIN INHABITANTS OF CARTERET COUNTY
NORTH CAROLINA.

Carteret County, Nov. 6th, 1780.

To His Excellency the Governor and the Hon. Council of the

State of No. Carolina.
The humble petition of the few remaining Inhabitants of the
said County.

Humbly Sheweth :

That for the following reasons they request that their Quota of
drafted men may remain in the County.

1st. Nearly all the young and able-bodied men belonging to
the said County have gone to Sea, and the remainder being either
aged or infirm, when absence from their families would be their
total ruin.

2nd. That Beaufort Inlet, being one of the best in the State, it
is therefore the most likely to be infested with small Picaroons of
the Enemy, and the Petitioners having information of one or more
boats fitting out against the town and vicinity of Beaufort, they
humbly conceive and request that their number of drafted men
may continue in the said County under such rules & regulations
as your Excellency & Honors may think proper, and are determined
to check the violence of the Enemy, and prevent their depreda-
tions on a very extensive part of the Sea Coast which, without such
a guard, must fall a prey to those piratical robbers, and afford
them a Harbour.

4th. Col. Ward we have begged to present this petition, and
desire Your Excellency & Honours may be pleased to refer to him
concerning the truth of the above premises, who can give a just
information respecting our present situation.

5th. That if our present Quota of Men are taken from us, we
shall be entirely disabled to withstand the weakest effort of our
Enemy, and left to the mercy of the most trifling plunderers.

STATE RECORDS.

Yoni Petitioners, relying in the "Wisdom and discretion of your
Excellency & Honours, thus represent their unhappy Situation,
and pray relief, which, if it should meet with your approbation.
They, as in duty bound, will ever pray, &c.

WILLIAM BORDEN. ZACHARIAH STARKER.

ZEPH. PINKHAM. JAS. PARRATT.

DIDRICK GIBBLE. DAVID COOPER.

JOHN LOYETT. THOMAS CHADWICK.

MALACHI BELL. JOSEPH BELL.

LEWIS WELSH. ROSSILAR SIMPSON.

LORD GEORGE GERMAIN TO GOV. JOS. MARTIN.

[B. P. R. O. Am. & W. Ind., Vol. 434, P. 97.]

Whitehall, 9th Novr., 1780.
Govr. Martin.

Sib:

I received by Captn. Ross, who arrived here the 9th of last
month from Charles Town, your letter of the 18th of August,
dated at Campden and Duplicate of one raark'd Private of the
10th of June, the Original of which had not come to hand.

If any Proofs were wanting of your zeal for the King's Service
and anient desire to forward His Majesty's measures for restoring
the Constitutional Dependence of America upon Great Britain
the honorable & repeated Testimony Lord Cornwallis has given
in His Dispatches of your constant and ardent endeavours to pro-
mote the attainment of that great object, and especially your
spirited Exertions at the Battle of Campden, would be sufficient
to place you high in His Majesty's favour, and I Trust you will
believe me that it would a;ive me particular pleasure to forward
the wishes of so meritorious a ser nut ofthe Crown. I have there-
fore much satisfaction in acquainting you that His Majesty is
graciously pleased to accept of your Recommendation of Mr.
Lewis de Rosset to be Secretary of North Carolina ; and as soon as
I am informed that Province is restored to Peace, which I hope
will not be long, I shall lay the proper Instrument for his Appoint-
ment before His Majesty for His Royal Signature. His Majesty
was apprized of Sir Henry Clinton's Intention, as His Majesty's

STATE RECORDS.

Commissioner, to appoint yon Governor of South Carolina, when
that Province should be recovered, and His Majesty would
undoubtedly have confirmed your appointment, but the power of
appointing Governors and other Civil Officers was only given in
that Commission which the Earl of Carlisle was at the Head of,
and was not continued in that which appointed Sir Henry Clin-
ton Sole Commissioner, any more than in the one he now acts
under. It is, however, extremely agreeable to the King that you
should continue Governor of North Carolina, as you prefer it to
the other.

You have certainly an equal claim to compensation for your
losses by the Rebellion with other Governors of the revolted
Provinces, but I understand that no compensation has been made
by the Treasury to any Governors but for losses in Tilings
attached to their public capacities, and not on account of what
they suffered in their private property as individuals, it being
intended that compensation for such losses should arise out of the
Rebejs' Estates which may be confiscated and applied to that pur-
pose by the legislatures of the respective Provinces when their
antient constitutions are restored.

I am much obliged to you for the detail yon have given me of
Military Affairs in South Carolina preceding the glorious event
at Campden, as there are many particulars in your letter which
I could not have otherways known, hut which concur with all
other accounts in extolling Lord Rawdon's able conduct, and
doing justice to His distinguished Military Talents. I impa-
tiently expect to hear of Lord Cornwallis' further progress in con-
sequence of His decisive victory. The exemplary punishment he
so judiciously inflicted on some of those who had broken their
paroles and violated their Oaths by joining the Rebels after hav-
ing made their submission must have the best effects in deterring
others from being guilty of the like duplicity in hopes of receiv-
ing, if detected, that indiscriminate Lenity which has unfortu-
nately been so long extended to all, and, by shewing those still
in arms that we are not afraid to punish Rebellion, must operate
to induce them to bethink betimes of their own Safety and with-
draw from a cause which is evidently declining, before their Sit-

STATE RECORDS.

nation becomes desperate. I am therefore not without hope
your next dispatch to me will be dated from the Capital of your
province.

I am &c,

GEO. GERMAIN.

GEN. ISAAC GREGORY TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

To His Excellency Gov. Nash.

Camp Gkeat Swamp, 10th November, 17S0.
Sie :

I am now at this place with a few men, trying to secure this
pass. On the 8th Inst, the Enemy attacked our works at this pass
but was repulsed with some loss on their side; the next day they
came down with two held pieces and paraded their men with these
pieces, burnt a few houses, went off without trying to attack
our works. The situation that I am in is a bad one at present.
Yery few men then as volunteers turned out before I Returned
home, and thinks themselves at large to act as they think
proper. The Drafts that Genl. Benbury had ordered is not come
to Camp. The Enemy is strong; from the best Intelligence I
can get their strength when first landed was upwards of two
thousand & a Gentleman of undoubted veracity who was at
Portsmouth about eight days agoe says he saw one thou-
sand, which makes upwards of three thousand. It's believed that
they intend to Secure Eden ton ; if so the trade ot this State is
nearly completely stopeJ. You may judge the forlorn situation. I
am distressed not only for men alone, but what men we have
got their arms is by no means fit for use ; we have very few of
any sort. I shall do every thing in my power to frustrate them
in every pass I can till such times I am enabled with men, and
had 1300 men well pointed I should be able to take the pass,
they possess, but Expect everyday they will be Reinforced, which
will make a great deal of Difference.

I am without money even to pay Expresses or any other neces-
sary thing that is wanting. I refer you for further particulars to
Mr. Hervey, as he can inform you.

I am, Sir, very Respectfully yr. most obedt. Srt.,

ISAAC GREGORY, Brig.

STATE RECORDS.

PETITION OF JOHN BROWN AND OTHERS TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

To His Excellency, Abner Nash, Esquire, Governor of the State
of North Carolina, & The Honourable the Members of the Coun-
cil for the State aforesaid.
The Petition of John Brown, Alexander Mitchell, John Johnson,
John McKenzie, & James Provand,
Humbly Sheweth.

That your Petitioners were captured in the Brig Aggy, Prince
of Wales, & Kattie by the private Ship of War, the General Nash,
& brought into this Port;

That the allowance by Law to Prisoners is so inadequate to
the Expences daily incurred that without the assistance of indi-
viduals they could not obtain the necessaries of Life.

Your petitioners therefore pray that they may be permitted to
proceed in the first Flag to Charles town, to be exchanged for an
equal number of the citizens of that State, or any other of the
United States. And as in duty bound Your Petitioners will ever
pray.

JOHN BROWN.
ALEX MITCHELL.
JOHN JOHNSON.
JOHN MACKENZIE.
JAMES PROVAND.
Newbern, November 10th, 17S0.

COL. ALEX. MARTIN TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

War Office, Hillsborough, Nov. 10th, 17S0.
Sir:
By the last accounts from the Western Army Lord Cornwallis
is between the Wateree and Congaree Rivers, opposite to Rockey
Mount, collecting the provisions in that Quarter. Others say he
hath divided his Army into two Columns, and hath marched one
to Ninety-Six, and the other towards Charles Town; However,
from Genl. Harrington's Letter inclosed, they are fortifying at
Camden, from whence you can draw your own conclusion.

STATE RECORDS. 151

Genl. Smallwood is about 15 miles below Charlotte, waiting for
a Reinforcement of the Regulars who marched from this place the
2nd of this Instant to the amount of 1,000 Men, consisting of the
Maryland, Delaware and Buford's Virginia Corps. Genl. Gates
set off with 130 Continental Horse last Monday after them.
Genl- Stevens is here with about 500 naked Virginians, without
arms and every other necessary, but we hear they have some arms
at Roanoke, which, when they arrive, they will march as they are
to the Westward.

We expect here every day the arrival of Genl. Greene, who is
to supercede Genl. Gates, as by the last advice received from our
Delegates in Congress.

Your Excellency will find by the Letters of Genls. Butler and
Harrington, herewith sent you, the necessity of immediate Drafts
to supply the place of those Militia whose Times will expire accord-
ing to their Returns. Major O'Neal, the Bearer of this, will
attend your Excellency for such orders you will please to send to
Hillsborough & Salisbury Districts on this particular. We think
Rowan and Mecklenburg ought to be spared as much as possible,
as the whole of their Militia have been on constant Duty. We
have no certain accounts of the movement of the British in Vir-
ginia. Should they continue there any Time we cannot expect
much assistance from the Newbern and Edenton Districts, of which
your Excellency wiU he the judge. We are well acquainted by
this time with the Difficulties attending the collection of the spe-
cific Tax, which comes in very slow ; by impressment and some pur-
chases the army have hitherto been maintained. Gen. Gates hath
expected that this State should wholly support the Army as to
provisions, but this we have undeceived him in. His Contractors,
however, on Continental Credit have been very busy in procuring
Cattle in different parts. We wish to appoint a Commissary
General to collect and forward to the different ports the provisions
from different parts of the State, could we find a proper person,
Persons are wanted in the meantime to superintend the Counties
of the Districts of Newbero and Edenton in collecting to some
Magazine their supplies.

Genl. Smallwood hath urged the Expediency of issuing a proc-
lamation of pardon to the Tories at this juncture, who from their
treatment from the British Daily distress him by surrendering

STATE RECORDS.

themselves, and be believes would generally come in with any
encouragement. As this concerns the civil Government of North
and South Carolina, we wish your Excellency would consult your
Council, as also Gov. Rntledge, as to the propriety of such a
Measuie, which we confess is somewhat Delicate at this time.
Should you think it proper we beg leave to recommend that yon
preclude all persons in alliance with this state who have borne
Commissions in the British Service.

The Commissioners of Trade are wrote to respecting the public
Salt, part of which we wish to have conveyed up the Country, to
Johnson Court House, to Halifax, &c, with the utmost Dispatch-

A number of Letters are here from different parts to Gov.
Eutledge, particularly from Congress, but we know m>r where to
direct them ; one packet with money we have sent to Mr. Hooper
in Wilmington, agreeable to his Directions and the Express
received no Accounts of him there.

Pray is it your Excellency's pleasure to fill up the vacancies in
the Board of War ~< We propose to rise and proceed to the west-
ward shortly, if agreeable to you ; our presence is absolutely neces-
sary there. Col. Henderson we think will be a proper person to
be added to us. should it be your Excellency's pleasure, and any
other person you will please to appoint.

Doct. Burke is waiting to bear from the Commissioners of Trade
before he can go to Congress.

Yon have a number of Letters from Congiess and elsewhere
inclosed.

I have the honour to be,

Witli the highest esteem and respect,
By Order,

Tour Excellency's, most obedt. servt.,

ALEX. MARTIN.
His Excellency Governor Nash.

COL. NICHOLAS LONG TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Halifax, November 10th, 1780.
Sir:
Yours of the 5th Instant. I received, covering a Letter for the
Governor of Virginia, which, after sealing, I sent on immediately.
I observe that you request that Capt. Jones be paroled to New-

STATE EECORDS. ] 53

bern. Most of The Gents in these parts think it not so expedient
at this juncture of time to send him. And indeed I am so
much put to it for Horses & Carriages for the Militia that now
are about to march that puts it out of my power to provide such
a carriage for him and his baggage. I intended to have kept it a
secret, but he got a Letter from Capt. Van Ross by the same hand
I received yours, which discovered the whole affair ; therefore I
hope you will excuse me for not complying with your request at
present. And by the return of this Express I hope you'll give
me further Instructions respecting him.

General Eaton seems to be at a loss what to do with his Mili-
tia,, as they meet next Monday week at this place. He informs me
he has no Instructions from you concerning them.
I am, Sir,

Your most obedt. & Humble Servt.,

NICHOLAS LONG, P. Q. M.

HON. WILLIE JONES TO COL. WALKER.

[Continental Congress, Chap. A, No. 78, Vol. 13, Page 21.]

Halifax, November 12th, 1776.
Dr. Sir:
I send you herewith some papers from Mr. Galphin, relative to
Indian affairs. It appears from them that he has much Difficulty
to keep the Creeks quiet hitherto, and it still remains a doubt
whether his labours will not prove fruitless at last. Should the
Virginians meet with success against the Overhill Cherokees, it
may possibly have a proper Effect on the Creeks.

Mr. Galphin seems to think it necessary to hold another Con-
gress with these last in the Spring. This might answer very well,
if a supply of goods, sufficient for presents, could be obtained.
You will be pleased to forward Mr. Galphiu's letter to Congress,
that they may see hir- Sentiments on the Subject.

I believe I will resign as Commissioner for Indian Affairs, as I.
have recollected a man who lives two hundred miles nearer to the
Seat of Business than I do, who is very well qualified for that
purpose.

1 am, Dr. Sir,

Your most obedt.& very hum. Si\,

WILLIE JONES.
[Endorsed] Letter from Mr. W. Jones to Col. Walker

STATE RECORDS.

PRESET. SAMUEL HUNTINGTON TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

(Circular.)
Philadelphia, November 13th, 1780.
Sir :
Congress having received Information from the Honourable the
Minister of France, of Inconveniences & Injuries received by our
Allies, Resulting from the Abuse the British make of Clearances
& Papers they take in American Prizes by personating the officers
and Commanders named in such Papers, being fully acquainted
with the language & Manners of our Officers & Seamen, &c.

In compliance with the request of The Minister of France, Con-
gress have adopted the enclosed resolution, in order to detect such
Abuses in future, and I am to request the Attention of your Excel-
lency to the necessary Measures for carrying the same into effect-
ual Execution.

I have the Honor to be. With the highest respect,
Your Excellency's Most obedient Servant,

SAM HUNTINGTON, President.

PETITION OF JOHN BROWN AND OTHERS TO GOV. ABNER
NASH.

To His Excellency Abner Nash, Esquire, Captain General, Gov-
ernor & Commander-in-Chief of the State of North Carolina,
The Petition of the Subscribers Humbly Represents,

That your Petitioners are informed that a Flag will proceed
from this to Charles Town in a few days, in which your Petition-
ers had Expectation to be sent in Exchange for an equal Number
of Citizens of the United States, or to return again in case such
an Exchange could not be effected. But as your Petitioners have
not been informed of the determination of the Governor and Coun-
cil on their former Petition, they are fearful the Prayer was not
granted.

Your Petitioners therefore most humbly pray, & they ask as a
matter of favour from your Excellency, that in case they cannot
be proposed for an exchange by the present Flag now intended

STATE RECORDS.

155

for the Southward, that they may be indulged to remain on Pa-
role in the Town of New Bern, where they have contracted a small
acquaintance, ifc where their Life in all probability will be most
agreeable to them.

JOHN BROWN.

JAMES PROVAND.

ALEX. MITCHELL.

JOHN" JOHNSON.
New Bern, Novem. 20th, 1780.

WILL. DRY TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Blue Banks, November 21st, 17S0.
To His Excellency, Abner Nash, Esq.
Dear Sir :
Pardon me for taking the liberty of recommending to you the
Bearer hereof, Mr. William Gibbs, the Treasurer of the Loan
office of South Carolina ; he has been here +br some time with the
Loan Office Certificates. He has heard that there is a Flag going
from New Bern to Charles Town, and is very desirous of going
in her to see his Family.

Mrs. Dry joins me in our best Compliments to your good Lady
& the Young Family.

I am, with the greatest Sincerity, Dr. Sir,

Your Excellency's Most obedt. Hum. Servt.,

WILL. DRY.

GEN. H. \V. HARRINGTON TO GOV. AHNKR NASH.

To His Excellency Governor Nash, Newborn.

Cheraw's Camp, 22nd Nov., 1780.
Sir:
I beg leave to mention a word in favour of Mr. Jn. Wilson, of
George Town, One of Twenty t'our Prisoners now sent from my
Camp to Newbero. Mr. Wilson was taken near that Town the

STATE RECORDS.

15th Inst, by the active Col. Rowan as he was going to Mrs. Hen-
lock's Plantation for the express purpose of relieving the exceed-
ingly distressed Mrs. linger and Family. He was high in the esteem
of this Lady's worthy Husband, the late Major Ben. Huger, and
used to be well attached to the American Cause. I have reason
to believe that Mr. Wilson's sentiments in that regard are not
altered, and that it is entirely owing to an accident that he is sup-
posed to have a Commission in the King's service. He has not
been under any confinement on his way here, and the delivery of
this Letter to your Excellency will be a convincing proof of his
being a man of honour, for he goes with, and not in charge of, a
guard I shall be obliged to your Excellency to admit Mr. Wilson
to his Parole in Newbern till such time his Excellency Gov. Rut-
lege shall be pleased either to release him or to Determine other-
wise.

I have the honour to be, '

Your Excellency's most Humble and most obedt. Servt.,
H. W. HARRINGTON.

GEN. ISAAC GREGORY TO GOV. ABNER XASH.

Camp North West River Bridge, )
24th November, 17S0. j

Dear Sir :
I received your favour by Capt. Hervey, and was very glad to
hear the Gentleman was so ready to turn out. At the time I
wrote your Excellency 1 believed the situation of this part of the
State was in a bad way, as the Enemy seemed determined to force
our premature pass. Since that they have left the post that we
are in possession of, and have embarked on board their vessels,
and on the 23rd this Inst, they left the bay. It is believed they
intend for the Southward, but for the Certainty I am not able to
say. Under these Circumstances I have Discharged the Troops
that were here, and have wrote to General Eaton on the same
subject. It is certain they intend to make their winter Campain
at Portsmouth, as they had throwed up very good works there.
It was a very great affront to tell them that Cornwallis was
obliged to Retreat. They Expected to join him at Richmond, in

STATE RECORDS.

Virginia, in about ten days from their first landing. A vessel
from South Carolina gave them the first alarm. I have done the
best I could to get all the Intelligence and strength of the Enemy
at this place. Inclosed you will see a list of their strength, from
the best authority I could procure, as I have had proper parties
out for five days in Norfolk County & Prince Ann. I have noth-
ing more to inform yr. Excellency at present.
I have the Honour to be

Yr. Excellency's most obedt. Servt.,

ISAAC GREGORY.

RETURN OF BRITISH FORCES AT PORTSMOUTH.

The strength of the British forces & Navy when at Portsmouth,
Virginia : '

Grenadiers & Light Infantry guards 400

Battn. of Hessians 260

Detachment of Highlanders 300

Queen's Rangers to be Mounted.. ._ 100

Eighty second Regt 360

Six Companies Light Infantry .■ — 240

Eighty fourth Regt 300

Remains of the 17th Regt., the bal. being taken out at

Stony Point 120

A Company of Yagers 50

Total 2,130

Royal Provincials Commanded by Colo. Fanning 300

2,430

NAVY.

Romulus 44 Guns Com'd Gaton.

Blonde 32 " " Capt. Berkley.

Iris 32 " Do Dawson Express from Charlestown.

Arbuthnot 20 " Do Mr. Pherson belong to Goodrich.

Delight 16 " " Capt. Ingles' Sloop of war.

Halifax 16 " " Capt. Brown " " "

158 STATE RECORDS.

Otter 16 " " Capt. Creek "

Apollo 10 " " King's Schooner.
Two Gallies

The best information I could Collect.
Head Quarters N. W. R. Bridge, Nov. 23

PETITION OF ISRAEL BOURDEAUX TO GOV. NASH.

To His Excellency Abner Nash, Esquire, Governor & Commander-
in-Chief of the State of North Carolina.

The Petition of Israel Bourdeaux, a Citizen of the Independ-
ent States of America, and late an Inhabitant of the State of
South Carolina :

Humbly Sheweth,
That your Petitioner hath a number of Brothers,
Natives of South Carolina & faithful Subjects of the
United States, who have, from the First Commencement of the
War between Great Britain & America to its present Stage, uni
formly and invariably manifested the Firmest Attachment to the
Interest and Liberties of America by standing forth in the defence
thereof whenever they were invaded by the Common Enemy;
that in Consequence of this laudable and unchangable Disposi-
tion, and their last Effort against the Hand of Tyranny, produced
by a genuine Sense of their Duty to their Country, and the purest
Inclination to support her Cause, they have made a complete Sac-
rifice of property, and two of them have unfortunately fallen and
are now in the power & Hands of the Enemy, experiencing every
Species of Hardship & Mortification that the Cruelty & Malice of
the Enemy can possibly invent & exercise ; that one of these two
of your Petitioner's Brothers has a Family and a numerous Train
of Dependents, who have none else to look up to for Support,
which, from his unhappy Situation, he is at this time unable to
afford ; that he, having his whole property'in Trade, his Vessels
in port ifc his Effects removed a little Distance into the Country
when Charles Town was invaded by the Enemy, lost the whole at
its surrender except his Household Furniture, which remained in

STATE RECORDS.

the Town, but which by a proclamation of the British Com-
mander he is prevented disposing of, even for the purpose of
Subsistence; that by these Means his situation is peculiarly hard
& distressing; that the Truth of these particulars can he averred
by several Persons now in Newbern ; that your Petitioner hath in
his Possession a Letter from his said Brother informing him that
he is " without the Means even of Subsistence,1' and is expressive
of a desire of be'ng released from a Situation which is by far
more deplorable than the generality of People conceive it to be.
Your Petitioner humbly conceives that the virtuous but unfor-
tunate Citizens of Charles Town, who are now in the most
wretched Captivity, look up to none for Relief and Extrication
out of the Difficulties with which they are on all sides encom-
passed, and in which they are involved from a steady persever-
ance in their Country's Cause, but to Persons in your Excellency's
exalted station & Character, and he may with confidence say your
Excellency in particular. Their only Hope is in. your Interfer-
ence whenever an Opportunity of Exchange occurs

Your Petitioner, therefore, in the most humble & respectful
Manner, begs leave earnestly to solicit your Excellency's kind
Interposition in behalf of his said Brother, and that your Excel-
lency will direct that one of the Prisoners now in Newbern should
go with the present Flag for that purpose. And your Petitioner,
with the utmost Submission & Deference to your Excellency, fur-
ther begs leave to propose Mr. McKenzie, one of those prisi
as the most eligible Person ; but if your Excellency should see tit
that none of those prisoners should go to Charles Town in order
to be Exchanged, then your Petitioner would pray that your Excel-
lency will give a Permission for Mr. McKenzie to go in the Flag
and remain in Charles Town on his Parole until he can be
exchanged. Your Petitioner begs leave to mention.the Reasons
which have influenced him to make this last request : The first is,
thai your Petitioner is acquainted with the Person and Character
of Mr. McKenzie, as well as with his Connections in So. Carolina;
that lie knows him to be a good disposed and inoffensive young
Man, however different he may be from your Petitioner in point
of Political Sentiments, and that he firmly believes within him-
self that he would not do a thing (was it even in his power)
injurious to the Country. The second is that Gratitude will

STATE RECORDS.

prompt Mr. McKenzie to use his own Influence & obtain that of
his Friends, in alleviating the Distresses of the Citizens in Charles
Town that are prisoners, if it appears that your Petitioner hath
been in the least instrumental in procuring him this Indulgence
from your Excellency.

Your Petitioner rests in flattering Hopes of having one part or
the other of the Prayer of his Petition granted,

And shall, as he is in Duty bound, ever pray, etc.

Newbern, November 25th. 1780.

COUNCIL OF WAR.

[Continental Congress Papers, No. 154, Vol. 2, Page 337.]
At a Council of "War held at the Camp at New Providence, in
the State of North Carolina, the 25th November, 1780, Consist-
ing of

The Commander in Chief.
■ Major General Smallwood.
Brigadier General Huger.
Brigadier General Morgan.
Brigadier General Davidson.
Colonel Kosciusko, Chief Engineer.
Colonel Buford.
Lt. Colonel Howard.
Lt. Colonel Washington.
The Council being assembled, the Commander in Chief acquain-
ted them

That — The want of Provisions and Forage in this Camp —
The advanced Season of the Year — The almost total Failure
of the Herbage — The entire want of a Magazine of Salted Meat
and the Uncertainty of providing it — The increasing Sickness
and the unwholesome Situation of the Camp — The want of any
proper accommodation for the sick — The want of Hospital Stores
and proper Comforts necessary for sick and deceased Soldiers —
The probability of a Reinforcement being sent from the Enemy
at New York — The Invasion of Virginia, and the apparent Pros-
pect of Sir Harry Clinton's supporting that Invasion and Com-
manding a Co-operation with Lord Cornwallis — The State and

STATE RECORDS. 161

Strength of this army compared with that of the Enemy, and the
Expectancy of Reinforcements coming to our Army, are the motives
which induced him to assemble the Council of War and to request
their Opinion of the Movements and the Position the Arm}' ought
to take in the present circumstances.

The Council having fully deliberated upon the matter before
them — And the question being put, What Position the Troops
ought to take '. Whether at or near Charlotte, or at the Waxhaws,
or in that Neighborhood, The Junior Member, Lieut. Colonel
Washington, gave it as his Opinion — That at or near Charlotte
should be the present Position of the Army, to which every other
member of the Council assented but General Smallwood, who was
for the Army's moving to the Waxhaws, taking post there for
three weeks, and then returning to Charlotte.

Sign'd HORATIO GATES.

W. SMALLWOOD.

ISAAC HITGER.

DANIEL MORGAN.

WM. DAVIDSON.

THAD. KOSCIUSZKO.

N. BUFORD.

J. E. HOWARD.

WM. WASHINGTON.
True Copy. Chrisr. Richmond, Secy, to Genl. Gates.

162

STATE RECORDS.

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STATE RECORDS.

OFFICIAL REPORT, BATTLE OF KING'S MOUNTAIN.

[From the Virginia Gazette, November 18th, and Massachusetts Spy,
November 30th, 1780.]

A state of the proceedings of the Western Army, from the 25th

of September, 17S0, to the reduction of Major Ferguson and

the army under his command.

On receiving intelligence that Maj. Ferguson had advanced as
high up as Gilbert Town, in Rutherford County, and threatened
to cross the mountains to the western waters, Col. William
Campbell, with four hundred men from Washington County, Vir-
ginia, Col. Isaac Shelby, with two hundred and forty from Sulli-
van County of North Carolina, and Lieut. Col. John Sevier, with
two hundred and forty men of Washington County, assembled at
Watauga, on the 25th of September, where they were joined by
Col. Charles McDowell, with one hundred aud sixty men from the
Counties of Burke and Rutherford, who had fled before the enemy
to the western waters.

We began our march .on the 26th, and on the 30th we were
joined by Col. Cleveland, on the Catawba River, with three hun-
dred and fifty men from the Counties of Wilkes and Surry. No
one officer having properly a right to command in chief, on the
1st of October we dispatched an express to Maj. Gen. Gates,
informing him of our situation, and requesting him to send a gen-
eral officer to take the command of the whole. In the meantime
Col. Campbell was chosen to act as commandant till such general
officer should arive. We marched to the Cowpens, on Broad
River in South Carolna, where we were joined by Col. James
Williams, with four hundred men, on the evening of the 6th of
October, who informed us that the enemy lay encamped some-
where near the Cherokee Ford of Broad River, about thirty miles
distant from us.

By a council of the principal officers, it was then thought
advisable to pursue the enemy that night with nine bun
dred of the best horsemen, and leave the weak horsemen and
foot-men to follow as fast as possible. We begun our march with
nine hundred of the best men, about eight O'clock the same even-
ing, and marching all night, came up with the enemy about three

164 STATE RECORDS.

O'clock P. M. of the 7th, who lay encamped on the top of
King's Mountain, twelve miles North of the Cherokee Ford, in the
confidence that they could not be forced from so advantageous a
post. Previous to the attack, on the march, the following dispo-
sition was made: Col. Shelby's regiment formed a column in the
centre, on the left Col. Campbell's regiment, another on the
right, with part of Col. Cleveland's regiment, headed in front by
Maj. Winston and Col. Sevier's regiment, formed a large col-
umn on the right wing. The other part of Cleveland's regiment,
headed by Col. Cleveland himself, and Col. Williams' regimen t,
composed the left wing. In this order we advanced, and got within
a quarter of a mile of the enemy before we were discovered. Col.
Shelby's and Col. Campbell's regiments began the attack, and
kept up a fire on the enemy, while the right ami left wings were
advancing to surround them, which was done in about five min-
utes, and the fire became general all around. The engagement
lasted an hour and five minutes, the greater part of which time
a heavy and incessant fire was kept up on both sides. Our men
in some parts, where the regulars fought, were obliged to give way
a small distance, two or three times, but rallied and returned
wirli additional ardor to the attack. The troops upon the right
having gained the summit of the eminence, obliged the enemy to
retreat along the top of the ridge to where Col. Cleveland com-
manded, and were there stoped by his brave men. A flag was
immediately hoisted by Capt. DePeyster, the commanding officer
( Maj. Ferguson having been killed a little before, ) for a surren-
der. Our fire immediately ceased, and the enemy laid down their
arms, the greatest part of them charged, and surrendered them-
selves to us prisoners at discretion.

It appears from their own provision returns for that day,
found in their camp, that their whole force consisted of eleven
hundred and twenty-five men, out of which they sustained the
following loss: Of the regulars, one Major, one Captain," two Ser-
geants and fifteen privates killed, thirty-five privates wounded,
left on theground, not able to march, two Captains, four Lieuten-
ants, three Ensigns, one Surgeon, five Sergeants, three Corporals
and one Drummer, and forty-nine privates taken prisoners. Loss
of the Tories, two Colonels, three Captains, and two hundred and
one privates killed; one Major, and one hundred and twenty

STATE RECORDS. 165

seven privates wounded and left on the ground, not able to march,
one Colonel, twelve Captains, eleven Lieutenants, two Ensigns,
one Quarter-master, one Adjutant, two Commissaries, eighteen
Sergeants, and six hundred privates taken prisoners. Total loss
of the enemy, eleven hundred and five men at King's Mountain.
Given under our hand at camp,

WILLIAM CAMPBELL.
ISAAC SHELBY.
BETS J. CLEVELAND.
The losses on our side were, one Colonel, one Major, one Cap-
tain, two Lieutenants, Four Ensigns, nineteen privates killed ; total,
twenty-eight killed ; one Major, three Captains, three Lieutenants
and fifty five privates wounded ; total, sixty-two wounded.
Published by order of Congress.

CHARLES THOMSON, Secretary.

P. BUTLER TO GOV. ABNER NASH.

Wilmington, Nov. 30th, 1TS0.
To His Excellency Gov. Nash, Newbern.
Dear Sir :
I did myself the honour to write to you some time ago from Cross
Creek ; since then I have not been favoured with a letter from
you.

The Bearer of this, Capt. De Treville, who is in the South Caro-
lina Division of the Continental Army, has pressed me for a Letter
to you. I have a Slender acquaintance with this Gentleman, but
have always heard Him Called a Zealous, diligent and good Officer,
lie i- very Intelligent, & can give you a good deal of information
respecting the situation of So. Carolina. He has a Number of
their Publick Papers. I beg to present my best respects to Mrs.
Nash.

I have the honour to be, with great respect,

P. BUTLER.

STATE RECORDS.

DR. HUGH WILLIAMSON TO HON. THOMAS BENBURY.

Edexton, Dec. 1st, 1780.
The Hon'ble Thomas Benbury, Esq., speaker of the House of

Commons of the Assembly of North Carolina.
Sir:

After the Battle of the 16th of August, as soon as I overtook
Genl. Caswell, he gave me a Flag to return to the Enemies' Lines
for the relief of our wounded ; I was also instructed to ask for a
return of the Prisoners.

This return 1 have made to the present Commanding Officer, but,
as thePublick may be. desirous to know the Fate of those Brave Men
who bled on that Memorable Day, I shall take the liberty to men-
tion such facts as seem most interesting. I wish I could say that
our loss after the Battle, either by wounds or sickness, was incon-
siderable ; but we labored under many difficulties. It was our
misfortune that the Countenance we showed immediately after
the Battle was not calculated to Command that respect which is
due to an army of the United States. The Enemy was disposed
to neglect us, and a victory which they greatly overrated did not
seem to increase their Humanity. For eight or ten days after the
Battle our people suffered under great neglect. After the Bit-
terest Complaints and most urgent importunity oursupplies became
more liberal. We were also weakin Medical Help. Our Militia
Surgeon disappeared after the 'Battle, and the Commander-in-
Chief had not yet turned his attention to the Wounded Prison-
ers. It happened that one of ihe Continental Surgeons fell'into
the hands of the Enemy. It may be supposed that with his assist-
ance, tho' he was indefatigable, I found it impossible to give the
desired help to 240 Men, who Laboured under at Least 700
Wounds. After three weeks we were happil}' reinforced by Dr.
Johnson, a Senior Surgeon of great skill & Humanity in the Con-
tinental Service.

Inclosed is a List of the wounded Militia, also the only return
I could get of the Prisoners in general. It is not satisfactory,
for the Commissary of Prisoners, one Booth Boote, whose Char-
acter did not appear to be diversified by a single Virtue, would
never do any thing that would prove acceptable to us.

The number of wounded brought into Cambdeu from the actions
of the 16th and 18th of August was 240. Of this number 162

STATE RECORDS. 167

were Continental Troops, 12 were South Carolina Militia, 3 were
of Virginia Militia, and 63 were of the Militia of this State, of
whom the List is enclosed.

On the 7th of September 18 of our Militia, having recovered
from their wounds, were sent to Charlestown ; 9 of the Militia, hav-
ing recovered, escaped at different times, and 10 of them remained
in Cambden on the 13th of October chiefly well. We had the misfor-
tune to lose 5 Privates, who died by their Wounds, 9 by the Small
Pox, 1 by a Putrid fever, and 4 by the Flux ; 2 Officers died by their
Wounds and 2 by the Small Pox.

It will be observed that we paid a heavy tribute to the Small
Pox. However, we have the comfort to recollect that, having
formed the most alarming apprehensions from that disease, no
means in our power were omitted by which we might avoid or pal-
liate its dangerous effects. The British Camp generally contains
the Seeds of Small Pox. It had been in Cambden for some time.
We were not suffered even to inoculate those Men whose wounds
would admit of that operation with safety. Lord Cornwallis
shewed much displeasure at the Inoculation of an Officer who had
a slight wound, and was quartered apart in a private House.
Desirous that some of our Surgeons might be permitted to inocu-
late the prisoners who were sent to Charles Town, I made an
application to his Lordship on that Subject, and received the
inclosed Answer, from which nothing could be'expected. Imme-
diately after I was called to see two of the Inhabitants of South
Carolina who were sick in Prison. They had the small Pox in a
small Room with 17 others, State Prisoners, who were yet to take
it. I wrote Lord Cornwallis on so pressing a Tryal of Humanity,
Stated the Cases fully, and assured his Lordship that Confinement
in such a Room, putrescent as the Atmosphere there was, must be
followed by death, equally certain as immediate execution. The
two sick Men were enlarged, but the others were detained ; they
were not inoculated ; most of them died. About the 22nd of Sep-
tember we obtained Permission to inoculate such of our Men as
had hitherto escaped. At that time the State Prisoners in Jail,
many ofthem very sick, were committed to my Care. Such as
were then in health, and were inoculated, suffered very little by the
Small Pox. Durine the whole of our attendance on the wounded

STATE RECORDS.

and Sick, we had occasion to remark That the most of our Pris-
oners were visited by the Flux, which prevailed in Cambden ; we
did not lose a single Man by that disease, unless of those who had
broken thighs or Legs.

That small Boys suffered most by the Flux; That the suffer-
ings of our men were greatly increased by the want of Sugar, Tea,
Coffee, Vinegar, and such other palatable antiseptic Nourish-
ment as is best suited the Sick. The cry for these Articles was
constant, while our supplies were so scanty as hardly to deserve
the name, nor was any thing of the kind to be purchased for
Money, unless in very trifling Quantities. From a transient view
of our misfortunes it is clear that we should save many Lives by
any kind of Military establishment which would admit of the
Troops being inoculated before they took the Field.

It is also clear that a moderate supply of Sugar, Rice, Tea,
Coffee or such other wholesome Nourishment for the sick and
invalids of our Militia would tend greatly to reconcile them to
the hardships of a Campaign ife would save the lives of many.

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your most obedient and very humble Servt.,

WILLIAMSON.
To the Honble Thos. Benbury, Esqr., Speaker of the Commons
House of Assembly.

RETURN OF WOUNDED N. C. MILITIA PRISONERS OF WAR.

Return of the North Carolina Militia Prisoners of war who
were wounded on the 16th & 18th of August, 1780.

OFFICERS.

General Rutherford.

Majors — Parker died of his wounds — Harris — J. Bird.
Captains — Edwards and Trice died of the small pox.
Macon — Joust Boyce — John Allen.

Lieutenants — Smith died of his wounds — Fra Brackey — Swain
Davis.

DIXON'S REGIMENT PRIVATES.

Thos. Weeks. Jn. Atkinson.

David Bloodworth. Euos Ewer.

Thos. Dobbin. Eli Crocket.

STATE RECORDS.

Jos. Irvin.
Woodard Tucker.
Sam Borden.
Wm. Wright.
Thos. Clarke.
Wm. Powel.
Zaek Williamson.
Emanl. Bowser.
Cader Harrol.

Jacob Cole.
Waxel Perry.

Ebenezer.

J. Wallace.

regiment-

Jos-. Ray.

Chas. Withers.
Zack Gallop.
Jardin Harrel.
Cam Smith.
Sam Arnal.
Dan'l Spivy.
Wm. Jones.
Mill Gids.
Jas. Warton.

-PRIVATES.

Jos. Sebum.
Barrel Whitington.
John Mason.
Geo. Hooper.

COLLIER'S REGIMENT PRIVATES.

Thos. Belsire. Thos. Wellmot.

Rab Burnside. Malachi Horton.

Barney Sains. Wm. West.

Alexander's regiment — privates.
John MacLanghlin. Andy Bowman.

Rich. Cain. Dan Burnside.

John Barker Ider. Jas. Day.

Rob. Walker. Geo. Craycrott.

John Pollerson.

Armstrong's regiment — privates.
Jno. Davis Sim. Southern. Elias Pea...

Return of the North Carolina Mi
ers on the 16th of August, 1780.
1 Brigadier.
1 Col.

1 Lieut. Col.
1 Major.
6 Captains.
4 Lieuts.

itia who were taken Prison-

1 Aid de Camp.

2 Commissaries.

2 Serg. Majors.
7 Serjeants.

3 Corporals.

136 Rank and file.

STATE RECORDS.

Taken on the 18th of August :

1 Lieut. Col. 1 Commissary.
3 Captains. 1 Sergeant.

3 Lieuts. 98 Rank and file.

2 Ensigns.

•291

To this List the Commissary had added one Willson, a Surgeon r
who had been with Genl. Rutherford's Brigade, 6z submitted some
days after the Battle.

GENERAL ORDERS BY MAJ. GEN. GATES.

Head Quarters, Charlotte, 3 December, 1780.

The Honorable Major General Greene, who arrived yesterday
afternoon in Charlotte, being appointed by His Excellency Gen-
eral Washington, with the approbation of the Honorable the Con-
gress, to the Command of the Southern Army, all orders will, for
the future, issue from, and aU Reports are to be made to, him.

General Gates returns his sincere thanks to the Southern Army
for their Perseverance, Fortitude and patient endurance of all
the Hardships and Sufferings they have undergone while under
his Command. He anxiously hopes their Misfortunes will cease
Herewith, and that Victory, with the Glory and Advantages
attending it, may be the future Portion of the Southern Army.

GENERAL ORDERS BY MAJ. GENL. GREENE.

Charlotte, 5th December, 17S0.
General Greene returns his Thanks to the Hon'ble Major Gen-
eral Gates for the polite Manner in which he has introduced him
to his Command, and for his good Wishes for the Success of the
Southern Army.

STATE RECORDS.

[From Gardner's Diary of the Revolution, Vol. 2, Pa&es 351 & 352.]

December 5, 17S0.
A letter of this date from Charlotte in North Carolina says :
"Although some pains have been taken to asperse the militia of
this, as well as our sister States, on account of what happened on
the memorable 16th & 18th of August, yet I hope that an impar-
tial world will not lose sight of those striking marks of heroism
displayed at Ramsour's on the 20th of June, where Col. Locke
commanded; at Packolet, in the night of the 15th of July, where
Colonel McDowel commanded ; at Coleson's, the south of Rocky
River, on the 21st of July, where Colonel, now General, Davidson
commanded, and in which he was wounded; at Rocky Mount, on
the 23rd of July, where the heroic General Sumpter Commanded ;
at Hanging Rock, on the 6th of August, where General Sumpter
Commanded; at Enoree,the 19th of August, where the late intrepid
Colonel Williams commanded ; at Augusta in Georgia, on the
12th of September, where Col. Clarke commanded ; at King's
Mountain, on the 7th of October, where Colonel Campbell com-
manded ; at Broad River, on the 9th of November, where General
Sumpter commanded, and where Major Wemyss was made pris-
oner; at Black Stocks, on Tygar River, on the 20th of November,
where General Sumpter commanded, and was unfortunately
wounded ; besides several other rencounters. Such a train of
important victories, obtained by raw militia, has no parallel in
history.

"The firmness of the people in Mecklenburg and Rowan Counties
when the enemy advanced to Charlotte evince that they possess
the most genuine principles; they were left to defend themselves
against the whole force of the enemy. His Lordship took post at
Charlotte with amazing pomp. Proclamations were issued, peace
and protection was offered to all returning and penitent rebels.
and death, with all its terrors, threatened to the obstinate and
impenitent. Governor Martin, with great solemnity, assumed the
Government, and conceived himself reinstated. The people
generally abandoned their habitations; some fled with such of their
property as they could carry: others took the field, determined to
dispute every foot of the ground, and some assembled in small

172 STATE RECORDS.

parties, in their respective neighborhoods, determined to harass the
enemy's foraging parties. His Lordship soon discovered that he
was in an enemy's country, without provisions, without forage,
without frends, without intelligence, without a single humble serv-
ant except Peter Johnson and McCafferty, who at last deserted him
in the night, and came to make peace with us ; his communication
with Camden cut off and his dispatches intercepted ; in the mean
time our friends joined issue with Ferguson at King's Mountain.

" These are stubborn facts, and will do immortal honor to the
militia. Lord Cornwallis' aid, in a letter to Col. Balfour, which
was intercepted, says : 'Charlotte is an agreeable village, but in
a d_.._d rebellious country.' Oh ! had we a well-appointed, well,-
disciplined, permanent force, what a delightful back-country dance
we should have led his lordship at Charlotte."

[From Johnson's Traditions op the Revolution, Page 3.

Dr. Williamson, the historian of North Carolina, was the
gentleman who obtained for Dr. Franklin the original Let-
ters of Governor Hutchinson, of Massachusetts, and of Oliver,
the Lieut. Governor, to the British ministry, advising hos-
tilities against the people of America. He was then in Lon-
don, engaged in scientific investigations, and had observed a cham-
ber or office in which colonial papers were kept for future refer-
ence. Concluding that the reported letters were probably there,
he went, in the character of a messenger from the head of one of the
departments, and called for the letters last received from Hutchin-
son and Oliver. They were handed to him, without suspicion,
and immediately put by him into the hands of Dr. Franklin. Early
the next morning Dr. Williamson was the bearer of these dis-
patches, and at sea, crossed over to Holland, on his way to America.
This transaction gave rise to the violent philippic of Mr. Wedder-
burn (afterwards Lord Lough borough) against Dr. Franklin,
which has always been considered one of the most finished speci-
mens of declamation in the English language.

STATE RECORDS.

GEN. NATH. GREENE TO GEN. GEORGE WASHINGTON.

[From the Washington Papers, No. 44, P 120.]

Camp Charlotte, December Ttli , 1780.
Sir:

I arrived at this place on the 2d of this Instant, General Gates
having reached this some days before me with apart of the troops
under his command, the rest being on their march to Hillsborough.
General Smallwood was below this, about fifteen miles towards
the Waxhaws, where he had been for a considerable time before
General Gates marched from Hillsborough. On my arrival I
sent for him, but he was gone towards Cambden in pursuit of a
party of tories, and did not arrive in camp till the night before
last. Immediately I called a council respecting the practicabil-
ity of holding a council of enquiry upon Genl. Gates' conduct
during his command in this department. The questions stated
to the council, and the answers of the members, are enclosed in
the papers from No. 1 to 5. I wrote your Excellency at Rich-
mond that I should leave the Baron de Steuben to take command
in "Virginia, which I accordingly did, and to endeavour, if possi-
ble, to make an arrangement of that line, since which I have not
heard from him nor whether the enemy have left Chesepeak
bay or not. As I passed through Petersburg an Express
arrived from below with intelligence that the enemy had
returned but having heard nothing further of the matter con-
clude the report must have been premature.

To give your Excellency an Idea of the state and condition of
this army, if it deserves the name of one, I enclose you an extract
of a letter wrote by Genl. Gates to the Board of War, No. 6.
Nothing can be more wretched and distressing than the condition
of the troops, starving with cold and hunger, without tents and
camp equipage. Those of the Virginia line are literally naked,
and a great part totally unlit for any kind of duty, and must
remain so untill clothing can be had from the Northward. I have
written to Governor Jefferson not to send forward any more
vi n t i 1 1 they are well clothed and properly equiped.

ks I expected, so I find the great bodies of Militia that have
been in the field and the manner in which they came out, being

STATE RECORDS.

all on horse back, had laid waste all the country in such a man-
ner that I am really afraid it will be impossible to subsist the few
troops we have, and if we can be subsisted at all, it must be by
moving to the provisions, for they have no way of bringing it to
the army.

1 have desired the Board of War of this State not to call out
any more Militia untill we can be better satisfied about the
means qf subsistence for the regular troops and the Militia
from Virginia.

Lord Cornwallis lies with his principal force at a place called
Wynnsborough, about half way between Camden and Ninety-
Six, at both of which places the enemy have a post and are
strongly fortifyed. At Camden they have seven redoubts, at
Ninety-Six not more than three, but they are very strong. Part,
if not the whole, of the embarkation mentioned in your Excel-
lency's letter of the 8th nlto. as taking place at New York
have arrived at Charlestown, and it is said Lord Cornwallis is
preparing for some movement.

I have parties exploring the Dan, Yadkin and Catawba rivers,
and am not without hopes we shall be able to assist the army
by water transportation. It is next to impossible to get a suffi-
ciency of waggons to draw provisions and forage the very great
distance we are obliged to fetch it to feed the army.

The inhabitants of this country live too remote from one another
to be animated into great exertions; and the people appear, not-
withstanding their danger, very intent upon their private
affairs.

Enclosed, No. 7 and S, are the reports of General Sumpter's
last action and Lt. Col. Washington's stratagem, by which he
took Col. Kingley and his party.

I find when the Baron Steuben comes forward there will be
a difficulty between him and General Smallwood. The latter
declares he never will submit to the command of the former,
and insists upon having his commission dated back to as early
a period as he had a right to promotion. When that was, I
know not, as I know of no principles of promotion from Brig-
adiers to Majors General except their seniority or special merit.
What is best to be done in the affair? Before I order the
Baron to come forward, I wish your Excellency's advice in the

STATE RECORDS.

matter. I fear our army is always to be convulsed by extra-
ordinary claims and special appointments. They are exceedingly
good men. It is a pity a dispute should arise between them,
so injurious to the service as it must be.

My Ideas respecting the power given by Congress for exchang-
ing prisoners of war in this department perfectly corresponds with
your Excellency's. I had no Idea that it extended to the Con-
vention troops, and by my enquiry only meant to learn your
advice, so that my conduct might correspond with your views.

All the prisoners taken by Col. Campbell and others have been
dismissed, paroled and enlisted in the Militia Service for three
months, except about 130. Thus we have lost by this folly (not
to say anything worse) of those who had them in charge upwards
of six hundred men. I am told Lord Cornwallis has lately made
a proposition to General Siuallwood for exchanging all the pris-
oners in North and S. Carolina. If it is upon terms that are just
and equal, I shall avail myself of it, P"or a great number of pris-
oners is a heavy weight upon our hands.

I am too little informed of the resources still left in this
country, and of the Enemy's designs, to tell what disposition
to make or how to dispose of the little force we have in the
field. I shall do the best I can and keep your Excellency con-
stantly advised of my situation.

General Gates sets out to-morrow for the Northward. Many
officers think very favourably of his conduct, and that when-
ever an enquiry takes place he will honorably acquit himself.
I am, with great esteem and regard,

Your Excellency's most Obedient Humble Servant,

NATHL. GREENE.
His Excellency General Washington.

176 STATE EECOEDS.

GOV. ABNER NASH TO GENERAL WASHINGTON.

[From the Washington Papers, No. 44, P. 189.1

X kwbern, December 14, 1780.
Sir:

1 have just had the honour to receive your Excellency's favour
of the 6th ult. Your favours by Majr. General Greene I did
myself the honour to answer sometime ago, & expressed how much
the Southern States were indebted to you for your attention
shewn to their interests in the appointmt. of that Genl. to the
Command here, & have no doubt he will effect every advantage
for us that we may enable him to do; at the same time must
observe that the provision hitherto made by the Assembly of this
State in particular for the support of an Army is so inadequate,
& the steps taken with regard to the currency & other Matters of
the greatest consequence so void of policy, that I fear much dis-
tress must yet be indured before we shall become sufficiently wise
for our own interests. The resolutions of Congress for filling up
our Continental Battalions I have repeatedly & in the most press-
ing manner recommended to their attention, & have had the mor-
tification as yet to find nothing effectual done. I hope your Excel-
lency's Letter to me on this Subject, w'eh I shall have the Honour
of Laying before them in a few days, will move the Assembly to
do something Suitable to their rank as a Sovereign State, & indeed
absolutely necessary to their political Existence. Of all their Acts
respecting the great object of defence I shall not fail to acquaint
yr. Excellency as soon as I am afforded an opportunity.

Since the affair of Ferguson's defeat, w'eh did the highest honour
to the Militia concerned in it, I hear the noted Col. Tarleton has
been defeated by another party of Militia under the com'd of Genl.
Sumpter. The Board of War writes me that in this action the
British lost 90 men killed & 70 taken prisoners, & that Tarleton
himself was wounded in two places, thro' the Body & his Thigh
broken. I have had the same accts. from Genls. in different parts
of the Country, but having it not from Camp I dare not give it as
Fact, tho' I much believe it. I have not heard a word of the
Enemy landed in Virga. since they left that country. Immediate!}'

STATE RECORDS.

on their departure I sent express to Genl. Smalhvood to put him
on his Guard. The Enemy have not been intirely free of trouble
off Oharlestown, & on the Coast in that quarter during this sum-
mer; they have suffered very considerably by our privateers, par-
ticularly by open Row Boats. These Boats, with forty or fifty men
on Board, take almost every thing that comes in their way. Two
who went in company returned here this week, after a leave of
about 20 days, in w'cb time they took and sent in 12 valuable
prizes, besides burning, I think, 4. They also did another impor-
tant service; they landed in Georgia and took off a Mr. Young,
the richest man and greatest Tory in that country, except the Gov-
ernor ; they also brought off a considerable number of his negroes.
This Mr. Young is now a prisoner. Here the action is exclaimed
against by some moderate men ; however, as it is exactly in the line
of retaliation, I shall not fail to encourage it, unless I should be-
overruled. There has been lately a second transportation of
Charles Town citizens to Augusta; among these is Mr. Middle-
ton the younger. Even the ladies do not escape their vengeance.
Mrs. Kinlock and Mrs. Ben Huger have written to me of their
distresses. For the offence of permitting Mrs. Pendleton, who
escaped from Charles Town, to stay a night in their house they
have been taken from their plantation at Wacomico and car-
ried prisoners to Chas. Town, where they are now confined, and
reduced from a state of the greatest affluence to want ; and to
embitter the condition of Mrs. Huger (the lady of Maj. Huger,
who fell in the siege of Charles Town) she has lost two of her
small children since she was separated from them, probably for
want of care ; but what I have mention'd are trifles compared to
their daily enormities. I shall on all occasions think myself highly
honored in hearing from your Excellency, and shall not fail from
time to time giving you such intelligence as I shall think it neces-
sary for our Commander-in-Chief to know,

And am, with the highest respect and esteem, Sir,

Your Excellency's most obedt. and very Hble. Servant,

A. NASH.

I beg yr. Excellency to forward the enclosed Ltr. to Genl.
Howe, A. N.

[Endorsed] December 14th, 1780, from Governor Nash.

178 STATE RECORDS.

COL. THOMAS POLK OF CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA.

LFrom Johnson's Traditions of the Revolution, 1776, Pages 82 & 83.]

December 15.

This gentleman was originally a surveyor in the southwestern
portion of North Carolina, his education not acquired within
the classic walls of a college, but practically obtained at intervals,
from his occupations in the hills, vallies and forests of the
Province. He thus became universally known and respected.
No man possessed more influence in that part of North Carolina.
He was uniformly a member of their Legislature, and was
elected Colonel of the militia of Mecklenburg county ; Adam
Alexander was the lieutenant-colonel, John Phifer the 1st Major,
and John Davidson the 2d major.

In consultation with his neighbors, the Alexanders, and Dr.
Brevard, it was thought necessary to express their opinions of the
political relations of America with Great Britain, particularly of
the Boston port bill, and the late arrival of numerous British
troops in Boston. It was agreed that he, as the military head,
should issue a notice to officers of each company in his regi-
ment, convening them, on the 19th of May, to consult on civil
and military concerns. The officers met at the time appointed,
not knowing of any political excitement, but it happened provi-
dentially that on the same day the express arrived from Boston
with printed statements of the attack on Concord by the British
troeps, and the battle of Lexington, which ensued. There was
no longer conjecture or apprehension of what might be done bjT
the soldiers to the citizens. Here was an outrage, attended by
hostilities ; the war had commenced, and they resolved to meet
the exigency by the measures which have been detailed.

The first opportunity for proving his zeal, afforded to Col.
Polk, was in South Carolina, in the winter of 1775. The tories
in the northwestern part of the State had embodied themselves
under Fletchal, Cunningham and others, with the inducements
held out to them by Sir William Campbell, the last of the royal
Governors. They had attacked the Whigs, under General Will-
iamson, besieged him in Cambridge, Ninety-Six, and forced him
to capitulate. The Council of Safety ordered out General Rich-

STATE RECORDS. 179

ard Richardson's brigade of militia, supported by Colonel Will-
iam Thomson's new regiment of rangers, and called on the Whigs
of North Carolina to aid in crushing the royalists. They did not
hesitate or delay, but marched into the upper districts, under
Colonels Polk, Rutherford, and Martin and Graham, with about
nine hundred men. Col. Polk took with him his oldest son,
Charles, who was wounded in a skirmish with the enemy. The
ro}7alists were completely vanquished, and did not again give any
trouble until the fall of 1780, nearly five years.

When North Carolina raised four regiments of continentals,
the Legislature elected Colonel Thomas Polk to the command of
the 4th regiment. We have not heard of his adventures during
the exciting scenes of General Gates' advance and disastrous
flight through that part of North Carolina, but cannot doubt of
his untiring energy and resistance to the British army under
Lord Cornwallis, when we know that he called Mecklenburg " the
hornet's nest." This gentleman was the uncle of the late Presi-
dent James K. Polk.

When General Greene succeeded to the command of the South-
ern army, we find the following letter recorded :

Camp Charlotte, December loth, 1780.
To Col. Polk.
Sie :

I find it will be impossible to leave camp as early as I intended,
as Colonel Kosciusko has made no report yet respecting a posi-
tion on Pedee. I must, therefore, beg you to continue the daily
supplies of the army, and keep in readiness the three days' pro-
visions beforehand. I have just received some intelligence from
Governor Nash and from Congress which makes me wish to see
you.

I am, &c,

NATHANIEL GREENE.

This letter bears strong evidence of Greene's confidence in the
energy, punctuality and patriotism of Colonel Polk, who at that
time owned mills in the neighborhood of Charlotte and kept a
6tore in the village.

STATE RECORDS.

ANDREW ARMSTRONG TO HON. THOS. BURKE.

Taylor's Feeet, December 15th, 1780.
Deae Sie :

A few days ago I met Mr. Porterfield on his way to Philadel-
phia, which prevents the Necessity of my delivering your letter
to Mr. Mallett. I understand (providing he receives Money equal
to the purpose) he has full instructions to purchase your place.
I thought best to let you know, that you might govern your-
self accordingly.

I think it may be depended upon that Tarleton's light Horse
attempted to surprise Sumpter, and was repulsed with consider-
able loss. When you leave Congress, (if you are in Cash,)
I would be much obliged to you if you buy me as much Cloth and
trimmings as will make me a Coat and Jacket, and let your Serv-
ant bring it home, or send it by some Waggon, as the places where
I have been affords nothing but the worst of substitutes. I pay
no regard to the Colour; only let the Cloth be good. I am now
getting some Sugar and Coffee taken to Hillsborough, where Mrs.
Burke shall have what she may have occasion for, and if there is
any apparent Necessity you may rest assured that I will pay all
the attention to your conserns that is in my power, but I now
begin to think that everything in our State will be undisturbed
untill your return. If you see Colo. Hart you may inform him
that I am convinced I could not serve him so much any other way
as by doing nothing for him. I will be more explicit to him by
Colo. Rochester, to whom I will deliver his Gold.

I am, Sir, with respect, your Servt.,

ANDW. ARMSTRONG.
The Honourable Thomas Burke, in Congress, from Andw. Arm

strong. Favd. by Col. Carrington.

STATE RECORDS.

GENL. NATH'L GREENE TO COL. MARBERRT.

[From Johnson's Traditions of the Revolution, 1776, Pages 388-389.]

The following may afford some idea, however imperfect, of the
destitute situation of the Southern army :

Camp Charlotte, December 16, 1780.
Sir:
The oznaburgs and sheeting now at this post will be sent you
immediately, to be made up into shirts and overalls for the sol-
diers. You will engage the women of the country to make them,
and, if you cannot do better, they must be paid in salt. You
know the distresses of the soldiery, and I flatter myself that
you will make every exertion to have them made up imme-
diately. The hospital is ordered from this place to Salisbury,
the preparations for which will call for your attention.
I am Sir, &c,

NATHL. GREENE.

HON. JAMES PORTERFIELD TO HON. THOS. BURKE.

Fredericksburg, 19th December, 17S0.
The Honourable Thomas Burke, Esqr., by Post, in Congress;

from James Porterfield.
Sir:

You have, without doubt, expected to see me or some other
messenger from Mr. Mallett before this time. I have been
detained here by some Publick accts., but shall without fail
leave this place in three days for Philadelphia, where I expect
to have the pleasure of seeing you. I can inform you that Mrs.
Burke was well when I left Hillsborough, the 3rd Inst. We
had just received accts. from Salisbury by a Letter from a Gen-
tleman there to Doctr. Reed at Hillsborough, informing you that
on the 20th of last month Colo. Tarleton attempted to surprise
Genl. Sumpter, in which lie was repulsed in three successive
Charges, with a Loss of Eighty men killed and seventy-live taken.
Tarleton was Mortally wounded, and Sumpter slightly, with a

STATE RECORDS.

ball in his Shoulder, which was immediately extracted. Doctr.
Reed (whom perhaps you may be acquainted with) assures us
that his information is so good he cannot doubt it.
I am, very Respectfully,

Your Obedt. Servt.,

JAMES PORTERFIELD.

GENERAL NATHL. GREENE TO ROBERT ROWAN.

Camp Cheraws, December 26, 1780.
Sib:
I am told that you are appointed clothier-general for the State
of North Carolina. The state of the army is such, with respect to
clothing and shoes, that I wish to see and consult with you upon
some pla-n for securing a supply, particularly of the latter articles.
For this purpose I beg that you will come to camp as soon as you
can with any degree of convenience.

The beeves that are killed for the use of the army afford a
great number of hides, which I wish to have exchanged either for
tanned leather or good shoes. Please to make enquiry concerning
the conditions on which exchanges could be made.
I am, etc.,

NATHL. GREENE.

[Extracts from Johxsox's Life of Greexe, Vol. 2, Page 316.1

"Our troops were never without provisions so much during all
last campaign as they have been since Mr. Hart has undertaken
the business, and the provisions not more than twenty or thirty
miles off. The army went on suffering and complaining, at
intervals fed, and at times almost in a state of mutiny, and kept
to duty only by alternate soothing and severity. Rum and
tobacco, two articles of indispensable necessity to American
soldiery, could seldom be commanded, and a very large proportion
of the array were in a state of disgusting nakedness. A tattered
remnant of some garment, clumsily stuck together with the thorns
of the locust tree, formed the sole covering of hundreds. Great

STATE RECORDS.

part of my troops are in a deplorable situation for want of clothing.
Not a rag of clothing has come from the North, except a small
quantity of linen for the officers. We have three hundred men
without arms, and more than 1,000 men are so naked for want of
clothing that they can only be put on duty in case of desperate
necessity."

KING'S MOUNTAIN BATTLE— BRITISH ACCOUNTS.

[From Scots Magazine, January, 1781.]

Charleston, December 27, 1780.

A gentleman lately come to town has favoured us with an
account of the base treatment the unfortunate officers and men
met with who surrendered prisoners of war last October to the
Rebel, Col. Campbell, in the action of King's Mountain. A small
party of" the (British) militia returning from foraging, unac-
quainted with the surrender, happening to fire on the Rebels, the
prisoners were immediately threatened with death if the firing
should be repeated.

The morning after the action the prisoners were marched
sixteen miles. Previous to their inarch, orders were given by
Campbell, should they be attacked, to fire on and destroy every
prisoner. The party kept marching for two days without any
kind of provisions. On the third day's march all the baggage of
the officers was seized and shared among the Rebel Officers.

A few days after a mock court-martial sat for the trial of the
militia prisoners, when, after a short hearing, thirty gentlemen,
some of the most respectable characters in that country, had
sentence of death passed on them, and at six O'clock the same day
they began to execute. Col. Mills and Capt. Chitwood, of North
Carolina, Capt. Wilson, of Ninety-Six, and six privates were first
executed. The British Officers were compelled to attend at the
execution of their brave hut unfortunate men, who, with manly
firmness, avowed their loyalty in their last moments, and with
their latest breath expressed their unutterable detestation for the
Rebels and their base and infamous proceedings" The remaining
twenty-one were reprieved for a time.

STATE KECOKDS.

GEN. NATH. GREENE TO GEN. GEORGE WASHINGTON.

[From the Washington Paper. No. 44, P. 311.]

Camp at the Cheraws, on the West )

Side of the Pedee, December 2Sth, 1780. j
Sir:

In ray last dispatches of the 7th Instant I informed your Excel-
lency of my arrival at Camp, and of the condition and situation
of the Army. I was apprehensive, on my first arrival, that the
Country around Charlotte was too much exhausted to afford sub-
sistence for the Army at that place for any considerable time.

Upon a little further enquiry I was fully convinced, and imme-
diately dispatched Col. Kosciuzko to look out a position on the
Pedee that would afford a healthy camp and provisions in plenty.
His report was favourable, and I immediately put the army under
marching orders ; but the excessive rains, which continued eleven
days, prevented our marching till the 20th Inst. We arrived
here the 26th, having performed the march with incredible diffi-
culty through a barren Country, with waggons and horses alto-
gether unfit for service.

The probability that my taking this position would discourage
the enemy from attempting to possess themselves of Cross Creek,
which would have given them the command of the greatest part of
the provisions in the lower country, was another inducement to
come to this place. It is also a camp of repose, and no army ever
wanted one more, the troops having utterly lost their discipline.

Before I left Charlotte I detached 300 of our best troops and
Lt. Colonel Washington's Regiment of Light Dragoons, under the
command of Genl. Morgan, with orders to take a position on the
South side of the Catawba, near the fork of Broad river, where he
was to be joined by 300 volunteers under Gen. Davidson and 4 or
500 S. Carolina and Georgia Militia under the command of Colo-
nel Clark and Colonel Few.

With this party he is either to act upon the offensive or defen-
sive, as occasion may warrant. This will streigthen the enemy in
their limits and prevent their drawing their supplies from the
upper country. It will also give spirits to the Inhabitants of that
quarter, and enable them to form a number of small magazines in

STATE RECORDS. 185

the rear of the troops, (which Genl. Morgan has particularly in
charge,) that we may have something to subsist on should we be
able to advance hereafter in force.

Lord Cornwallis continues in the same position that he was
when I wrote before, and Genl. Leslie arrived off Charlestown bar
the 14th ; But whether he has landed any of his troops I am not
informed. The troops mentioned to have arrived in my former
letter were only some recruits that came in with provision vessels,
not exceeding 4 or 500 men.

Genl. Gates left the army the 10th and Genl. Smallwood the 19th
Inst. The latter is gone to Maryland, with a view of forwarding
the troops & supplies from that State, and to settle the matter
with Congress respecting his right of promotion, being determined
not to submit to the command of the Baron de Steuben, who is
still in Virginia, very usefully employed in forming and forward-
ing the Troops from that State.

I have been obliged to send Major Neilson's corps of horse and
Col. Armand's Legion to Virginia, both being unfit for duty for
want of clothing and other equipments, and the difficulty of sub-
sisting of thein is much greater here than there. Before my arri-
val Genl. Gates made an attempt to employ part of Col. Armand's
Legion, and fifteen of them deserted on the march from Hillsbor-
ough to Charlotte, which obliged him to recall them. I wish your
Excellency's directions respecting this Corps, as they are totally
deranged, and cannot be fit for service for some time.

Two slight skirmishes have been fought with the enemy since
my last, one by a party under Col Marion, upon the Santee, and
the other by Col. Few, near Ninety six ; about 20 or thirty were
killed and wounded on each eide.

I will not pain your Excellency with further accounts of the
wants and sufferings of this army. But I am not without great"
apprehension of its entire dissolution unless the Commissary's and
Quarter Masters' departments can be rendered more competent to
the demands of the service.

Nor is the clothing and hospital departments upon a better foot-
ing. Not a shilling in the pay chest, nor a prospect of any for
months to come. This is really making bricks without straw.

I am, witli sentiments of the highest respect And esteem,
Your Excellency's most Obedient, Humble Servant,

NATH. GREENE.

186 STATE RECORDS.

P. S. This moment accounts have been received that Genl.
Leslie landed his troops at Charlestown on the 21st Inst., and on
the 24th was at Monk's corner, on his way to Nelson's ferry. The
Cherokee Indians have murdered a number of the Inhabitants on
the Frontiers of N. Carolina, It is said the militia have inarched
against their lower towns.

N. G.

COL. ANDW. ARMSTRONG TO HON. THOS. BURKE.

Hillsborough, Dec. 29th, 1780.
The Honourable Thomas Burke, in Congress, from Andw. Arm-
strong, favd. by Gen. Smallwood.

Dear Sir :
Some time ago I wrote to you from Virginia, acquainting you
that I had met Mr. Porterfield on his way to Philadelphia, and
that he told me (if he was not disapointed in Cash) that he had
particular instructions to buy your place. I delayed a night at
Colonel Henderson's, on my way to Hillsborough, where Mr. Por-
terfield had also been, and told Colonel Henderson of the above
intention. It is the Colonel's oppinion 'that your place is truely
valuable, and he thinks it will be difficult, if not impossible, to
Purchase another of equal value with the money that you will get
for it ; but these matters I presume is safe enough under your own
consideration. Yesterday I went to see Mrs. Burke, who then
was well. The inoculation at your place has gone on in an unac-
countable manner. After repeated tryals to no purpose, they all
took it the Natural way, some of your small Blacks very much
marked, and one wench has been dangerously bad, but I believe
all will recover. I inentionel in my last that if you was in Cash
when you left Congress that you would bring me good Cloth and
trimming for a Coat and Jacket. Not a word of News here ; it is
generally believed that the Enemy will not attempt this State
untill they are re-enforced.

I am, Sir, with respect,

Your very Humble Servt.,

ANDW. ARMSTRONG.

STATE KECOKDS.

PETITIONS TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, 1780.

THE PETITION OF ANN GLOVER.

State of North Carolina.
To the Honorable the General Assembly of the said State now
sitting.'

The Humble Memorial of Ann Glover, widow of Samuel
Glover, late a soldier in this State, who enlisted himself some time
in the }Tear 1775, in the Continental Service in the Second Regi-
ment raised here,

Humbly Sheweth,

That your Petitioner's late Husband well and faithfully dis-
charged his Duty as a Soldier and Friend to the Cause of Ameri-
can freedom and Independence, & marched to the Northward
under the Command of Col. Robert Howe, who, if he was here,
would bear honest and honorable Testimony that your Memori-
alist's deceased Husband was deemed by him and every other officer
in that Battalion a good soldier, and never was accused of being
intentionally Guilty of a breach of the Laws, Martial or Civil.
Your Petitioner begs leave to inform your Honors that her late
husband continued in the service of the United States of America
upwards of three years, and then returned, by orders of his Com-
manding officers, to the Southward, at which time he had above
twelve months' pay due for his services as a soldier, and which
he ought to have received, and, would have applyed for the sole
support of himself, his wife, your Petitioner, and two helpless
orphan Children. That many of the poor soldiers then on their
March under Command of Gen. Hogun, possessed of the same
attachment & affection to their Families as those in Command,
but willing to endure all the dangers and Hardships of war, began
their March for the Defence of the State of South Carolina, could
they have obtained their promised but small allowance dearly
earned for the support of their distressed families in their absence ;
but as they were sure of suffering for want of that subsistance
which at that time & unjustly was cruelly withheld_from them, a
General Clamor arose among the common soldiery, and they
called for their stipend allowed by Congress, but it was not given

188 STATE RECORDS.

them, altho' their just due. Give your poor Petitioner leave to
apologize for her unhappy Husband's conduct, & in behalf of her
helpless self, as well as in Favour -of his poor Children ou this
occasion, and ask you what must the Feeling of the Man be who
fought at Brandywine, at Germantown, (fe at Stony Point & did
his duty, and when on another March in defence of his Country,
with Poverty staring him full in the face, he was denied his Pay ?
His Brother soldiers, incensed by the same Injuries and had gone
through the same services, & would have again bled with him for
his Country whenever called forth in the service, looked up to
him as an older Soldier, who then was a Sergeant, raised by his
merit from the common rank, and stood forth in his own and their
behalf, ifc unhappily for him demanded their pay, and refused to
obey the Command of his superior Officer, and would not march
till they had justice done them. The honest Labourer is worthy
of his hire. Allegiance to our Country and obedience to those in
authority, but the spirit of a man will shrink from his Duty when
his Services are not paid and Injustice oppresses him and his
Family. For this he fell an unhappy victim to the hard but
perhaps necessary Law of his Country. The Letter penned by
himself the day before he was shot doth not breathe forth a word
of complaint against his cruel Sentence, Altho' he had not
received any pay for upwards of fifteen months. He writes to
your Humble Petitioner with the spirit of a Christian. This
Letter is the last adieu he bid to his now suffering widow, ifc she
wishes it may be read in public Assembly, and then returned her
by some of the Members, who will take it with them when they
return to Newbern, and leave it in the care of Major Pasteur.
Your humble Petitioner, distressed with the recollection of the
fatal catastrophe, will not trouble your Honours any longer upon
the subject, but humbly request that you will extend your usual
Benevolence & Charity to her & her two children, and make her
some yearly allowance for their support.

I am, &c,

ANN GLOYER.

New Been, 10th Jan. 17S0.
We the subscribers recommend the above mentioned Petitioner
to the Honorable the General Assembly as an object of Charity.

JNO. COOKE,
IS. GUION,
R. COGDELL,
CHRIS'T NEALE.

STATE RECORDS. 189

PETITION OF BERNIER STEED AND OTHERS.

To the honourable the Commons of the State of North Carolina,
now met in General assembly :
The humble Petition of the freeholders and freemen inhabitants
of the town of Wilmington
Sheweth,
That on the 10th day of March, 17S0, came on the election of a
commoner to serve in this present assembly for the said town of
"Wilmington, at which William Hooper, John Walker and Will-
iam Hill, Esquires, were candidates.

That several persons voted at the said election who were not
qualified agreeable to the constitution of the State, not having
been inhabitants of the said town one year, nor having paid pub-
lic taxes, in consequence whereof the said William Hill, Esqr.,
had a majority, tho' very few.

That the said William Hill, Esquire, was at the time of elec-
tion a county trustee for the County of New Hanover, and also a
receiver of public money, having been Naval officer for the port
of Brunswick, and it is dubitable whether he accounted or not.

That your Petitioners humbly conceive the election of the said
William Hill, Esquire, to be manifestly illegal ; for, to constitute
a legal vote, two requisites are essential : 1. That there be a
capacity in the elector ; and 2. That there should be a capacity
in the candidate receiving it.

Your petitioners therefore humbly pray this Honorable House
to take their case into consideration, and to give them such relief
as tn this Honorable House shall seem meet.
And your petitioners shall ever pray, &c.
BERNIER STEED. ELIJAH CRUNDEY.

JOHN HOPKINS. JAMES McKENNA.

RT. BANNERMAN. PETER HARRISS, sen.

JAS. HARPER. PETER HARRISS, jun.

THOS. STOLKEY. JOHN WALKER.

RICHARD PLAYER. F. STEED.

JAMES SPILLER. DANIEL BERNARD.

190

STATE RECORDS.

SHERIFF'S RETURN. •

A due return of an Election begun & held at Wilmington,
March 10th, 1780:

Candidates for
the Senate.

Commoners for
the County.

Commoners for
the Town.

Votes

Votes

Tim. Bloodworth. 82

John A. Campbell 56

John Islington .... 28

■

1 166

William Hill

Votes

John Ashe

47
45
23

32

27

William Hooper....
James Walker

23

1

115

83

Timothy Bloodworth had every vote but one.

THOS. JONES, Sheriff.

A true copy of the Toll as taken, ) JOHN DuBOIS,

delivered Mr. J. A. Campbell, Member, j Inspector of Poll.

RICH'D BRADLEY, Fr'd (?).

New Hanover County, April Term, 1780.

By order- (torn out)- of New Hanover (torn out)

that the annexed is a true copy of the List of the Taxables in the
District of Wilmington, as returned into this Court.

THOS. MACLAINE, Clerk.

Buford, Henry.
Bradley, James.
Brown, Thomas.
Bernard, Daniel.
Bagley, Jacob.

Persons' Names.
B

Benning, Arthur.
Brodie, Alexander.
Bradley, Richard.
Bland, Joseph.
Brice, Fran, for Ests. o:
John Forster & Self.

STATE RECORDS.

Bannerman, Robert.

Brown, Peter

Ditto Estat.
Anerara.

Blythe, James.

of John

Cobham, Thos., for self

& Jas Murray.
Clyderland, George.
Corbin ifc Graham.
Cambon, Jacob.

Chivers & Forbes.
Chi vers, Eorbes & Co.
Chivers & Peggs.
Corben, Edmund.
Campbell, Hooper & Co.

Dnnbibin, Jona.,

for self

Dubois, John, for self, Mr

& Est. of A. Ward

&

Dubois & Children.

S. PI ay or.

Downie, John.

DeKeyser, Lehanties.

E

Evans, William.

F

Flowers, David.

Fryout, Jacob.

Fergus, John.
Goldwin, Ann.

G

Ferguson, John.
Gamelion, Henry.

Gordon, John.

Gibson, Walter.

Grainger, Caleb.

Giekie, James.

Gilliard, John.
Green, William.

Gregory, Abigail.

Ditto for William Neale.

Grainger, Mary.

Harris, Peter.
Howell, Elias.
Hanson, Erasmus.
Harris, Peter.
Hostler, Alexander.
Henderson, James.
Hopkins, John.
Henderson, Thos.

James, Thomas.
Jewkes, Charles.
Jacobs, George.
Jones, Abraham.

Henderson & Ross.
Hooper, Geo. Thomas-
Hooper, George.
Hill, William.
Heron, Alias.
Ditto for F. Heron.
Heron,. Elizabeth.

Jones, James.
James, John, for self ct
Eliza James.

STATE RECORDS.

Kenan, Owen.

Leetch, Charles.
Loyd, Rebbieu Est.

Moore, John.
McKenna, James.
McLaine, Thomas.
McLaine & Huske.
McLorinan, Henry.

Nuttj John.

Player, Richard, for self
and the Est. of Jos.
Watson & C. Morris.

Quince, Parker, for self,
the Est. of R'd Quince
' & Thos. Gibson.

Riley, John.
Ronaldson, Arch.
Rowand, William.
Ronaldson, Andrew.
Rengrove, John.

Smith,
Smith, John.
Stokey, Thomas.

Toomer, Henry, for self,

Est. of A. Mabson.
Tood, William.

Walker, James.

Est. of Jas. Moore & Jno.

Quince, Est. Mrs. De-

Rossett.
Willson, Andrew.
Ward, John James.

W

Kirkwood, John.
Leonard, Martin.

Mansfield, James.
Maxwell, William.
Moore, Margaret.
Murphy, John.
McCullock, George.

Rooks, Henry, for self &
Solomon Hunt.
Roberts, Abraham.
Ross, David.

Steed, Berrier.
Spiller, James.

Thomson, Andrew.
Tate, James.
Tounley, Bnckner.

Wilkinson, William, for
self & Agent Harnet &
Wilkinson.
Walker, John.

Wright Thomas.

Walker. Hugh. *

Younge, Henry.

STATE RECORDS.

State of North Carolina.
Whereas a Petition from some of the Inhabitants of Wilming-
ton, complaining of an illegal election, &c, for the said town,
being referred to the Committee of Privileges and Elections:

You are, therefore, hereby Authorized to bring before the
Committee of Privileges and Elections (now sitting at the Town
of New Bern) the Sheriff of New Hanover County, so that he
make his personal appearance on the 28th of this instant, April,
Otherwise to cause a Due return to be made to the aforesaid
Committee on the 28th of April aforesaid of an Election begun
and held at Wilmington on the Tenth day of March last, for
Electing one person to represent the aforesaid Town of Wilming-
ton. Herein you are not to fail.

Given under my hand and Seal this 17th day of April, 1780.
THOMAS PERSON,

Witness. [Seal.]
To James Geekie to
Exect. & Return.
Yon are further hereby required to summons William Hill, of
the Town of Wilmington, to make his personal appearance before
the said Committee of Privileges and Elections, on the Day above
mentioned, then and there to answer to such mutters and things
as shall then be alledged against his having a right to a seat in
the Commons House of Assembly.

Given under my hand this 19th April, 17S0.

THOS. PERSON, Ch. Com.
Wilmington, 22d of April, 17S0.
Then was duly Executed, and by Post return'd the within
Warrant, Though did not know before that I was a Constable,
yet be assured that I shall be always ready and willing to execute
justice, and render my Country every Service in my power.

JAS. GEEKIE.

15—13

194

STATE RECORDS.

LIST OF PAPERS TO BE LAID BEFORE THE GENERAL ASSEM-
BLY, APRIL SESSION, 1780, Viz.:

No. 1.

2.

" 3,

5,

New Been, 17th April, 1780.

Letter from Gen. Lincoln, 15 Deem., 1779.
" " " 3rd Jan., 1780.

" " " " 29 and 31st Jan., 1780.

" " Gov. Rutledge, 31 Jan., 1780.

" " Edw. Rutledge, Esqr., 31 Jan., 1780.

Resolve of Congress, 16 March, 1778.
" " 30 Octo., 1779.

11 Nov., «

" " 12 & 16 Nov., 1779.

" " 16 " "

19
" " 14 Deer., "

cc « *15 (I

" " 30 Octo., "

Letter from No. Carolina Delegates, 4 Nov., 1779.
Extracts from Cunt. Congress Journal.
Letter from Ast. Audt. Gen. to Mr. Sharpe.
No. Carolina Acct. with the United States.
Letter from Presd't of Congress, 11 Nov., 1779.

" " Win. Sharpe, Esqr., 12 "

" " Presd't of Congress, IS "

" " Secretary of Congress, 20 "

" " 'the Presd't of Congress, 22 Nov., 1779.
14 Dec.

" " " " " " 15 " "

General Assembly of New Jersey to the Assembly of

North Carolina.
Letter from the Hon. Stephen Hopkins.
Proceedings of Com. for Settling prices, &c.
Return of the No. Carolina Brigade (Gen. Hogun).
Letter from Gov. Jefferson, 11 Nov., 1779.

" " Maj. Martin, 17 Dec, "

" " Colo. Evan Shelby, 18 Dec, 1779.

STATE RECORDS-

34, " " Gen. Lincoln, 8 Jan., 17S0.

35, " " General Washington to P. of Congress.

36, Extract from Letter of Gen. Wayne to Gen. Washington.

37, Copy Maj. Lee's Letter, 27 Dec, 1779.

38, Letter from No. Carolina delegates, 21st Jan., 1780.

39, Extract of Intelligence, " "
■10, Letter from the Delegates of N. C, 22 Jan.,

41, " " Gen. Lincoln, 24 Jan.,

42, " " " " " "

43, " " " " 2S "

44, " " " " 3rd March,

45, " " Gov. Rutledge, 5 "

46, " " Edw. Rutledge, Esqr., 5 March

47, " " Gov. Rutledge, 14 "

48, " " Gen. Lincoln, 14 "

49, " " Benj. Hawkins, Esqr., 14 Feb.,

50, Resolve of Congress, 13 Jan.,

51, " " " 14 "

52, " " " 24 «

53, " " " 9 Feb.,

54, " " " 6 Mar.,

55, " " " 6 "

56, " " " 18 & 20 March,

57, " " " 21

58, Letter from Presd't of Congress, 14 Mar.,

59, " " " " " 20 "

60, Proclamation for a Fast.

61, Letter from the Pay Officer, 21 Mar., "

62, " " His Excellency the Minister of France
at Phil.

63, Letter from Ch. D'Amours, 1 April, 1780.

64, " " Gen. Lincoln, 25 Mar., "

65, Papers relating to Flag of Truce.

R. CASWELL.

STATE RECORDS.

State of North Carolina,
In the House of Commons, 17 April, 1780.
Resolved, that the Rev. Charles Cupples be appointed Chaplain
to the present General .Assembly.

' THOMAS BENBURY, S. C.
By order,

J. Hunt, C. H. C.
In Senate 17 April, 17S0. Read and Concurred with

A. NASH, S. S.

By order,

Jno. Sitgreaves, Ct.

State of North Carolina,
In the House of Commons, 18 April, 1780.
Whereas, it is suggested to this House that a quantity of provis-
ions, and several articles of foreign produce, which may be
wanted for the use of the army, are about to be exported out of
this State if the same should not be prevented ; Therefore,

Resolved, that His Excellency the Governor be requested to
issue a Proclamation prohibiting the Exportation or Transporta-
tion (except for the use of the army) of every species of Provision
and of all kinds of Imported Commodities of Foreign produce or
Manufacture, either by Land or water, And that the Naval Offi-
cers, Justices of Peace and all other Civil officers be required to
see the said Proclamation have its due effect.

THOS. BENBURY, S. C.
By Order,

John Hunt, C. H. C.

GOV. R. CASWELL'S THANKS TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

22 April, 1780.
Mr. Speaker and Gentlemen of the House of Commons.

When I first received the Honorable appointment of Governor
of this State, I was induced to accept it from a desire of support-
ing, as far as in me lay, the Liberties and Interest of my Country,

STATE RECORDS. 197

and in discharging the several important duties of that elevated
station I am happy to find my conduct approved by you. The
manner in which you, Gentlemen, have been pleased to Communi-
cate the same to me is so truly affecting that I am at a loss to
express my Feelings on this occasion. However, give me leave,
Gentlemen, to return you my most Cordial and grateful thanks
for these warm, Friendly and affectionate expressions of regard
for my Happiness andthat of my Posterity. That you and yours,
with the good people whom you Represent, may enjoy that Free-
dom and Liberty so happily begun, and the Blessings of Indepen-
dence and Peace (with the assistance of your Councils) be estab-
lished and Secured to this and the United States to the latest
period, is my most Ardent wish.

R. CASWELL.

REPORT OF COMMITTEE RESPECTING CONGRESS PAPERS, &c.
[Concurred.]

24th April, 1780.

The Committee for taking into Consideration sundry dispatches,
Resolutions, Letters and papers from the Continental Congress,
report for the present as follows :

Your Committee having Considered the Resolution of Congress
of the 18th & 20th of March Ltst, are of opinion the mode therein
recommended is Eligible, and would answer Salutary purposes by
reducing the quantity of Continental money in Circulation, but
at present it appears impracticable for this state to carry the same
into immediate Execution.

Your Committee have further considered a Letter from the
president of Congress, inclosing a Resolution of that body of the
9th March, requiring the several States to furnish forth their
respective quotas of Troops for the Current year, and are of
opinion and recommend that 3,000 Men be immediately raised
for three years, or during the war, by voluntary Enlistment for
the purposes aforesaid, at the Expence of the whole State, and
that each County be required to raise their respective portions
according to the Number of Militia Men in that State, And for induc-
ing volunteers to turn out in the Service of their Country your

STATE RECORDS.

Committee recommend that a bounty of 500 dollars be given to
each man yearly, and every year, during the Term of three years,
And at the expiration of the said three years, or on the conclusion
of the present war, such volunteers respectively so Inlisting and
serving faithfully as Soldiers shall be entitled to receive from the
State a prime Slave between the age of Ten & Thirty years, and
also one hundred acres of Land on the Western waters, adjacent to
the Land appropriated by the Commonwealth of Virginia for the
Soldiers of that State.

Your Committee further recommend purchasing Commissaries
be appointed in each district of this State for supplying provis-
ions for the Militia to be raised.

Your Committee report as their opinion that a sufficient quan-
tity of Money be Emitted, and that the faith of this State be
pledged for the redemption thereof.

Your Committee recommend that a Taxation Bill be brought
in & passed this Session of Assembly, and that the Tax for the
Current year be Eight pence in the pound, one-half to be paid at
the end of six months, the other half to be paid in two equal pay-
ments, Comprehending the other Six months.

THOS. PERSON, Chair.

In the House of Commons, 24 April, 1780.
The foregoing Reports were read, &c. Concurred with.
By order,

J. Hunt, C. H. C.
In Senate 24 April, 1780. Concurred with.

ALEX. MARTIN, S. S.
By order

JNO. SlTGEEAVES, C. S.

STATE RECORDS.

PROCLAMATION FOR A FAST, APRIL 26TH, 1780.

Proc. for a Fast 26 April, 1780 ; 11 Mar, North Carolina.
Proclamation.

It having pleased the righteous Governor of the world, for the
punishment of our manifold offences, to permit the sword of war
still to harass our country, it becomes us, by humbling ourselves
before him and turning from every evil way, to avert his anger
and obtain his favour and blessing. It is therefore hereby recom-
mended to the several States That Wednesday, the 26th day of
April next, be set apart and observed as a day of fasting, humila-
tion and prayer, that we may with one heart and one voice implore
the sovereign Lord of Heaven and earth to remember mercy in
his judgments ; to make us sincerely penitent for our transgres-
sions ; to prepare us for deliverance, and to remove the evils which
he hath been pleased to visit us; to banish vice and irreligion from
amongst us, and establish piety and virtue by his divine grace ; to
bless all public councils throughout the United States, giving them
wisdom, firmness and unanimity, and directing them to the best
measures for the public good ; to bless the magistrates & people of
every rank, and animate and unite the hearts of all to promote the
interests of their country ; to bless the public defence, inspiring
all commanders and soldiers with magnanimity & perseverance and
giving vigor and success to the military operations by sea and land
to bless the illustrious sovereign and the nation in alliance with
these states, and all who interest themselves in the support of our
rights and liberties; to make that alliance of perpetual and exten-
sive usefulness to those immediately concerned and mankind in
general; to grant fruitful seasons & to bless our industry, trade
and manufactures; to bless all schools and Seminaries of learning
and every means of instruction & education, to cause wars to cease
and to establish peace amongst the nations.

And it is further recommended that servile labour and recrea-
tions be forbidden on the said day.

Done in Congress this the eleventh day of March, in the year

STATE EECOEDS.

of our Lord one thousand seven hundred and eighty, and in the
fourth year of our independence.

SAM. HUNTINGTON, President.
Attest,

Chas. Thomson, Jun.

State of North Carolina,
In the House of Commons, 29th April, 1780.

Whereas, it is represented to this House that a large quantity
of provisions remain in Sundry Stores in this State in a perishing
Condition ;

Resolved, That William Bennett or Win. Gardner for the dis-
trict of Edenton, James Bloodworth for the district of Wilmington,
Nathaniel Rochester for the district of Hillsborough, Hardy Bryan
for the district of Newbern, William Wooten for the district of
Halifax, and Joseph Dickson for the district of Salisbury, hereto-
fore appointed Commissioners in the respective districts in this
State to purchase provisions for the Army in January, 1776, and
all other persons who may have public provisions in their care at
this time, be and they are hereby required to Overhaul all the
Pork and Beef which they respectively purchased, and such as
may want repacking, to cause the same to be repacked, and that
they make an exact return as Speedily as may be to His Excel-
lency the Governor of the quantity in their hands respectively,
distinguishing such as may be good from the Bad.

Resolved, further, that the said Commissioners shall be allowed
such sums of money for Salt necessary in repacking the said pro-
visions as they may expend, also their Expenses & trouble, and that
His Excellency the Governor be requested, when such return shall
be made to him, that he appoint some person or persons to dis-
pose of all the pork & Beef which may be reported by the Com-
missioners to be had, for the use of the State.

By Order, THOS. BENBURY, S. C.

J. Hunt, C. H. C.

In Senate 29 April, 1780, Concurred with.

By Order, ALEX. MARTIN, S. S.

Jno. Sitgreaves, Ct.

STATE RECORDS.

PETITION OF JOHN HAT, JR.

April 29th, 17S0.
General Assembly of the State of North Carolina.

The humble petition of John Hay, jun.,
Sheweth,

That Henry McCullock, esquire, having granted to Patrick
Smith, late of Belfast, in the Kingdom of Ireland, merchant,
twelve thousand five hundred acres of land within the bounds of
this State, the said Patrick Smith conveyed one moiety thereof to
Arthur Dobbs, Esquire, late Gov. of North Carolina, and the said
Arthur Dobbs, by a writing under his hand dated the ninth day
of June, one thousand seven hundred and fifty-three, declared
that he held one-third part of the said moiety, containing two
thousand and eighty acres, in trust for Arthur Rainey Maxwell,
esquire, his heirs and assignees, and Conway Richard Dobbs,
esquire, eldest son and heir-at-law of the said Arthur Dobbs, by
deed bearing date the 12th day of July, one thousand seven hun-
dred and seventy-nine, released and surrendered his trust in the
said lands and assigned the same to Rainey Maxwell, esquire, son
and heir-at-law of the said Arthur Rainey Maxwell, now deceased ;
and the said Rainey Maxwell, by Indenture bearing date the
twenty-first day of the same July, conveyed the same to your
Petitioner, his heirs and assigns, as by the said declaration of
Arthur Dobbs, the release and assignment and indenture hereto
annexed, and to which your petitioner begs leave to refer, may
more fully appear.

That your petitioner embarked at the port of Belfast in the
month of September last with about forty passengers, many of
them persons of property, and arrived in the commonwealth of
Virginia in the month of December following, all the said pas-
sengers originally intending becoming citizens of some of the
United States of America, and to enable them to effect this in the
most convenient manner brought with them a considerable part of
their property.

Your petitioner, having at the risque of his property as well as
that of his personal liberty, removed himself from his native
country to become a citizen of this State, and thereby to enjoy a

202 STATE EECOKDS.

participation of the blessings of liberty, flatters himself that his
claim will appear to your honorable body in a favourable point of
view, and that you will, from a regard to equity and natural
justice, (not in the present case inconsistent, as your petitioner
conceives, with sound policy,) so far do away the acts for confis-
cating and disposing of the estates of absentees as will enable
your petitioner to take possession of the purchase he has made.

Your petitioner begs leave to represent to your honorable body
that the title deeds for the lands claimed by your petitioner must
have been in the possession of the late Gov. Dobbs, and your
petitioner has reason to believe fell into the hands of the attorney
of Mr. Edward Brice Dobbs; and as your petitioner has very
lately come into this State, he hath not had an opportunity to
apply for copies of them, nor doth he, with any degree of certainty,
know where they are to be found.

Your petitioner also begs leave to represent that the late Gov-
ernor Dobbs (as your petitioner has been informed and believes)
sold several plantations and considerable quantities of lands in
Mecklenburg County, and as it doth not appear from the annexed
papers in what part of the State the lands claimed by your peti-
tioner are situated, and if in Mecklenburg County, it is highly
probable that the most valuable and greatest part of what Gov-
ernor Dobbs held were disposed of in his life time, or have been
since appropriated under the late act of Assembly, and as he pos-
sessed a tract of land on the Six Runs (?) in Duplin County, which
is no other wise affected than by the confiscation act, your peti-
tioner humbly hopes that your honorable body will order that two
thousand and eighty acres of land may be laid off for him from
Mr. Dobb's tract in Duplin County, as a full compensation for his
claim by virtue of the annexed papers

Your petitioner begs leave to subjoin a testimonial from the
Governor of Virginia, and a certificate of your petitioner's having
taken the oath of allegiance and fidelity to this State, and is ready
to make further proof (if necessary) to the authenticity of the
annexed papers.

Your petitioner humbly prays that your honors may take the
premises into consideration and grant him such relief as you, in
your wisdom, shall think meet, and your Petitioner as in duty
bound shall pray, ifcc.

JOHN HAY.

STATE RECORDS

THE MEMORIAL OF THE MERCHANTS, TRADERS AND OTHERS

RESIDING AT CAPE FEAR.

(Rejected 2 May, 1780.)

To the Honorable the General Assembly of the State of North
Carolina.
The Memorial of the Merchants, Traders, and others, residing
at Cape Fear, whose names are hereto subscribed,

HuMBLT ShIWETH,

That the Confiscation Act, and the Act passed last Session of the
General Assembly for carrying the same into Execution, will, in
the opinion of your Memorialists, occasion the justice of the Legis-
lature to be called into question, and in their tendency greatly
endanger the credit of this State as a commercial Country.

Your Memorialists humbly conceive that, in case of a war, it is
contrary to the usage and custom of civilized nations to confiscate
the property of private persons who may be subject to the Enemy.
The most that is ever done in such cases is to secure such property,
untill it shall be known how the enemy behave in the like case.

For a proof of this your Memorialists appeal to the Declarations
and Manifestoes published by France and Spain on the one side,
and Great Britain on the other, at the commencement of the late
and present war.

Many of the Traders in this country carried on very extensive
business without any funds of their own, but altogether upon the
credit which they had abroad. As men of fair characters, they
were liberally supplied with Goods, and their honor, as well as
their principles, make them willing, and even desirous, of dis-
charging the debts they have contracted. It is true they cannot
do this until Hostilities cease between the United States and Great
Britain, and perhaps for some time afterwards ; but if these debts
are called out of their hands, what foreign merchant will hereafter
give credit to an Inhabitant of North Carolina ? If a State seizes
upon private property, what man will hereafter be mad enough to
trust his property in that State? There are few, if any, of the
United States except this that have laid their hands upon British
property, as such; none, that we know of, that have meddled with
British debts. We are sensible that it had been urged that pay-

204 STATE RECORDS.

ing these debts at the exchange mentioned in the Act can do but
little injury, and be attended with little loss ; but, however small,
it will be a certain loss to the honest citizen, who cannot conceive
that his creditor is paid because an Act of Assembly has taken
the Money which should have been applied to that purpose. He
will, at all Events, pay his just debts, and the Act will give an
opportunity to the dishonest man to defraud his creditors and
make his own fortune. But were all this out of the question, your
Memorialists beg leave to contend that the measure adopted by
the Legislature will have the most pernicious consequences on the
public as well as the private credit of the Country. It will be
said that, there being more British property in America than the
Americans have in Britain, we meanly take advantage of that
circumstance and, because it is in our power, apply what belongs
to others to our own use. This, and much more, will probably be
urged against our public Conduct, to say nothing of the necessity
we may lie under of making restitution before peace can be estab-
lished ; for the property taken in this way will be treated of in a
very different manner from that which has been taken and
destioyedin the usual course of War ; Besides, what Merchant, who
may pay his debts agreeable to the Act, can with safety or mod-
esty show himself in the British Dominions ? "What Citizens of
North Carolina can appear abroad without being reproached with
the evil policy, perhaps with the injustice, of his Country ?

That your Honorable Body may take the premises into consid-
eration, your Memorialists have, as they conceive they are in duty
bound, presumed to lay their sentiments before you, and flatter
themselves that you will think the subject matter of their Memorial
merits some degree of attention ; That upon mature deliberation
you will be of opinion that the Acts referred to require amend-
ment ; That the innocent should be relieved, the commercial credit
of the Country supported, and, above all, the Justice of the State
preserved inviolate. Confiding in the wisdom and justice of the
Legislature, your Memorialists, as in Duty bound, shall ever pray,
&c, &c,

James Tate. F. Joueson (?) Burgwin.

Thos. Craike. Charles Jewkes.

H. Toomer. E. Corbin.

Jas. Geekie.

STATE RECORDS.

Sam. Campbell.
Wm. Wilkinson.
G. Hooper.
John DuBois.
H. Young Ronaldson.
Thos. Mclaine.
Joseph Titley.
James London.
F. Graham.
Jno. Fergus.
Robert Gillies.
P. Quince.

T. Hooper.
Rob. Hogg.
Francis Bruie.
W. Hill.
James Smith.
John Gordon.
Jonas Dnnbibin.
Thos. Davis.
James Walker.
Wm. Evans Williams.
Alexander Hostler.
A. Mclaine.
Jno. James.

State of North Carolina, )

In the House of Commons, 3d May, 1780. j
Resolved That the Members of the General Assembly be allowed
Fifty five dollars per day for their attendance as Members.

THOS. BENBURY, S. C.
By Order,

Jno. Hunt, C. H. C.
In Senate 7th May, 1780. Concurred with.

ALEX MARTIN, S. S.
By order,

Jno. Sitgreaves, Ct.

State of North Carolina, )
In Senate, August 31st, 1780. j
Resolved, That Captain William Williams, late of the fourth
North Carolina Continental Battalion, now unfortunately become
an Invalid by the Palsy, whose former services in the North Caro-
lina Brigade justly entitle him to the Notice of the General Assem-
bly, be recommended to his Excellency the Governor for a Cap-
tain's Commission to command a Corps of invalids to be raised in
this State of such wounded and disabled soldiers and Militia
belonging to the same, who are or shall be rendered unfit for Serv-
ice, not to exceed seventy five Rank and File, with two Lieuten-

206 STATE RECORDS.

ants and an Ensign and Non-Commissioned officers; that from
this date he be authorized to draw cloathing, Pay and Rations, and
Entitled to all the Immunities of officers of like Rank in the Con-
tinental Army ; And that he with the said Corps, when raised,
shall be ready to do such Duty within the State as shall be assigned
him from the Governor or Commaneer in Chief for the time being.

ALEX MARTIN, S. S.
By Order,

John Hatwood, Pro. Cl'k.
In the House of Commons, 6th Sept., 17S0. Concurred with.
THOS. BENBURY, S. C.
By Order,

John Sitgeeaves, Pro. C. H. C.

No. Carolina, in the Senate, )
3d September, 1780. )

Resolved, That his Excellency the Governor be requested to order
out a Command consisting of Horse and Foot, not exceeding Five
Hundred Men, to Pee Dee River and its Environs, there to collect
all the Stocks of dry cattle of three years old and upwards, and all
Horses suitable for the Army, so as not to distress any private Fam-
ily ; to be drove to good range on the North side of the North
"West Branch of Cape Fear River, there to remain under safe Guard
till further Orders ; That the Commanding Officers of said Corps
be directed to take descriptive accounts of said Cattle & Horses,
in order that justice may be done the owners ; That no Officer or
Soldier of said Corps be permitted during the Service to purchase
any Cattle or Horse, under the penalty of the same being seized
and forfeited to the use of the State ; That the Commanding offi-
cer observe the strictest Discipline, that all Plunder and Ravage of
the Inhabitants mav be prevented.

ALEX MARTIN, S. S.
By Order,

John Hatwood, pro. Cl'k.
In the House of Commons, 3d Sept., 1780. Read and Con-
curred with.

THOS. BENBURY, S. C.
By Order,

John Sitgreaves, Pro. Cl'k.

STATE RECORDS. 207

No. Carolina, in the Senate, )
5th September, 1780. j

It being Certified to the General Assembly that Edward Star-
key, Esqr., hath resigned his appointment as Auditor for settling
and adjusting the public Accounts of this State, &c, Resolved,
that Joseph Bryan, Esqr., be and he is hereby appointed Auditor,
and declared to be vested with the like powers as the Auditors
heretofore appointed by the General Assembly.

ALEX MARTIN, S. S.
By Order,

John Haywood, Cl'k.
In theHouse of Commons, 6th September, 1780. Concurred with
THOS. BENBURY, S. C.

By Order,

John Haywood, C. H. C.

No. Carolina, in Senate, )
11th September 1780., j
Resolved, That Brigadier General Gregory be furnished at the
Expence of the State, for immediate service, with a Gelding of the
first Price, in Consideration of one by him lost in the late Action
near Camden.

ALEX MARTIN, S. S.
By order,

J. Haywood, Pro. C. S.
In the H. of Commons, 11th Sept., 1780. Concurred with.

THOS. BENBURY, S. C.
By Order,

J. Haywood, Pro. C. H. C.

STATE RECORDS.

No. Carolina, in Senate, )
12th September, 1780. j
Mr. Joseph Bryan having signified to this House that he
declines acting as an Auditor of public Accounts, Resolved that
Memucan Hunt, Esqr., be appointed in his stead.

By Order, ALEX MARTIN.

John Haywood, Cl'k.
In the H. of Commons, 13th Sept., 17S0. Read and Concurred
with.

THOS. BENBURY, S. C.
By Order,

Jno. Haywood, C. H. C.

No. Carolina, |_

In Senate, Sept. 13th, 1780. )
Resolved, That the Printer of this State be required & enjoined
immediately to Print & Transmit by Express to the different
Counties Copies of all the Acts passed this present Session of
Assembly, postponing all other Business until the same shall be
finished, for which an extra allowance shall in future be made.

ALEX. MARTIN, S. S.
In Commons 13th Sept., 17S0. Concurred with.

THOS. BENBURY, S. C,
By order,

J. Haywood, Pro. C. H. C.

KADER HAROLDS PETITION.

Duplin, Dec. 27th, 1780.
To the Honorable the Members of the General Assembly of the
State of North Carolina, &c, &c.
The Petition of Kader Harold of Duplin County,

Humbly Sheweth,
That your Petitioner was Drafted a Militia soldier of the aid
sent to South Carolina under the Command of Maj. Gen. Caswell,

STATE RECORDS.

and in Colo. Henry Dickson's Regmt. That your petitioner was
in the action of the 16th of Augt., near Camden, where he
received several wounds and was taken a prisoner on the Ground,
And Remained in the British Hospital at Camden until the 14th
Day of September, at which time he made his Escape and got
home, and was instantly taken with the small pox, with his whole
family, and had the misfortune to lose one of his Children by
the Disorder. As your Petitioner is in very low Circumstance,
and Entirely unable to bear the Expence he has been at, or to
provide a maintenance for his family for the approaching season,
having made little or no crop, he hopes your Honble. Body will
take his Case into your Consideration, And Grant him such
Relief as to you may seem meet, And your petitioner, as in Duty
Bound, will Ever pray, &c.

KADER HAROLD.

PETITION FROM THE INHABITANTS OF CUMBERLAND COUNTY

To the Honorable the Geneial Assembly of the State of North
Carolina.

The Petition of the freeholders and inhabitants of the County
of Cumberland,

Humbly Sheweth

That the village called Cross Creek, within the Liberties of
Campbellton, has within a few years increased in a rapid man-
ner, insomuch that there are one hundred dwelling houses and
Merchants' Stores therein, and the Trade of the back settlements
(before the beginning of the present wars,) almost wholly center-
ing there, occasioned originally by the convenience of the Flour
Mills on Cross Creek, of which there are now Three, and the best
in this State ;

That the situation of Cross Creek is High, dry and healthy, and
accommodated with excellent Water, & that of Campbellton, as
laid out by act of Assembly, is mostly in a low, swampy situation,
& the road from Cross Creek thereto is through a level clay
ground, which, from the constant intercourse of Waggons, is often
rendered almost impassable for foot persons and extremely disa-
greeable to horse-men ;
15— U

STATE RECORDS.

That, as business is transacced entirely at Cross Creek, and the
inhabitants of the County generally make their Markets in Term
time, it is extremely difficult to enforce the attendance of witnesses
and Jurors at a Mile distance, by reason of which the business of
the Court is greatly retarded ;

That, to avoid all invidious disturbances for the future, and to
regulate the Village of Cross Creek by a Law for that purpose,
Commissioners be appointed to lay out the streets thereof with as
much convenience and as little damage to the inhabitants &
owners of houses & land as may be; and that for the future
the said Village and Town be distinguished by the names of
Upper and Lower Campbell ton;

That for several years past the County has been without a
Gaol, and the Court house being at present in a very ruinous
condition, that an act be passed for building a new Court House
& Gaol in the upper Town, now called Cross Creek, and that
the Courts be held in such Court House when built ;

That the purchasers of Lotts in Cainpbellton are in danger of los-
ing their property for want of the necessary improvements required
by act of Assembly, many persons having already seated them-
selves thereon, expecting in time to hold their possessions by
prescription ; and there are others who have lately purchased
under the Original proprietors of Lotts, who have made consid-
erable improvements, at the hazard of having their property
sold for the benelit of Mr. Russell, to whom the lands formerly
belonged, as no Titles have ever yet been granted for said Lotts;
That Your Petitioners therefore Pray the Premises may be
taken into consideration, and that your Petitioners may have
such relief as to Equity & Justice may seem meet ; and your
Petitioners, as in duty bound, shall Pray.

Robert Rowan. William Carver.

John Matthews. Walter Murray.

Stephen Gilmore. Jacob Matthews.

John Dobbins. Alexander McDougal.

Simon McLaudon. Donald Campbell.

Wm. Gibson. Frank Anderson.

Onesepho (?) West. George Draugher.

John Oueler. John Armstrong.

Nathan King. Alex. Gregory.

STATE RECORDS.

211

Thomas Jones.
Francis Mckoy.
Neitton Craime. (?)
Jno. Armstrong.
Archibald Smith.
Thomas Armstrong.
Michael Condry.
Jno. Murphy.
Phil. Hodges.
Simon Hadley.
Arch. Beatten.
Will Morris.
Willie Johnson.
"William Matthews.
Henry Caster.
Martin Lenard.
Arch. McNiell.
Roger Morrison.
Jos. Lawsons.
James Gee.
Geo. Fletcher.
Phillip Raiford.
Dngald Graham.
Charles Stevens.
Dan'l Campbell.
Gilbert Buie.
Daniel Burnside.
Anthony Bams.
James Stuart.
Peter Colbreath.
Will Phillips.
Charles Powers.
James Canice.
John Hatson.
Dan. McNeill.
Harry McNair.
Jas. Moses.

Joshua Jones.

Dan'l McGill. .

John Terler.

John Smith.

Daniel Buie.

John McNair.

Samuel Arnold.

Will'm Hodges, jur

Jno. Ric'd Crump.

Will'm Colisin.

Roger McNiell.

John Wicker.

Dan Sutherland.

John Gavish.

Jno. McDonald.

John McKoy.

Daniel Thompson.

Duncan Finlay.

Thos. Cabeen.

Jno. Hodges.

Peter Mallett.

Charles Campbell.

Alex. McAlester.

Neill McNair.
James Turner.

Matthew Leverman.
John Cox.
David Meginsafe.
James Dick.

Williams.

Isaac Williams.
Robt. Cochran.
Alex. Graham.
James Hogues.
Arch. Simson.
Lewis Barge.
Jas. Burnside.

STATE RECORDS.

PETITION OF SAMUEL STRUDWICK.

To the General Assembly of the State of North Carolina.

The petition of Samuel Strudwiek,
Humbly Sheweth,

That your petitioner some years ago purchased the Interest of a
Certain Governor Burrington, supposed to include a large Body of
Land situated in the Haw fields. The location of those lands has been
much disputed, and all attempts to ascertain it, though authorized
by repeated orders from the superior Court of the district, have
been frustrated by the violent opposition of sundry persons who
have seated themselves thereon, and since the Revolution in Gov-
ernment have enter'd and patented all that were of any value,
not Excepting my House and the plantation whereon I live. In
giving in the List of my Taxable property I was much Embar-
rassed ; to Charge myself with the Imposition on Lands others
enjoyed and had, prima facie, acquired a Title to, seemed impru-
dent and injurious to myself. On the other hand, if I neglected
to give it in, my adversaries might construe it and it might
operate as a disclaimer ; 1 therefore chose a middle way, which
was to mention in my list that I had a claim to 24,000 acres of
Land, but had not one hundred acres in my possession, Upon
which I thought the assessors would never subject me to a Tax
for what others enjoyed and paid Taxes for to the State ; But in
this I found myself grievously mistaken, for they have valued me
for the whole Body as highly as they have assessed the Best lands
in the County, tho' it is notorious that a Third part of it had not
in old times been worth paying the Quit rent for. Application
was made to the Court of Orange for redress, who directed the
Collector to postpone the Collection till the Assembly would
signify their pleasure thereon. Your petitioner, therefore, Prays
that you will take the above into your serious consideration, and
Grant him such relief as you in your wisdom will think fit, and
your petitioner, as in duty bound, will ever pray.

SAM. STRUDWICK.

STATE RECORDS. 213

PETITION OF CHARLES McLEAN.
(No order on it.)

To the Honorable the Speaker and the Gentlemen of the Senate
and house of Commons.

Lincoln County, North Carolina.

The petition of your faithful subject
Humbly Sheweth,

That in the month of Febuary last there was a number of the In-
habitants of the said County, and from other Counties, most secretly
Collected Together, and, being embodied, forceably Marched off,
plundering and Eobing and taking prisoners as they went, Bosting
themselves that they would soon be victorious after joining the
King's forces. Your humble petitioner, being by Duty Bound,
Raised a number of the militia for to purshua and interrupt the
March of the Insurgents, but their March being so pressed could
not overtake them. The people employed in pershute being
disappointed in overtaking them, and Being Cautious of a Reward
Due them from those treators of the said State, and finding
nothing else but some of the property of the saide insurgents,
Laide hold of several horses Creators and fetched them in with
them ; & your humble petitioner, not knowing how to proceed for
the safety of the people That was thus Concerned, I thought Best
to put these Artickels to Sale, and took Bond to the governor in
Name of the State. These I lay Before your Honorable Body,
for your Wisdom and mercy to me, to save me from the persecu-
tion of those that would, your humble petitioner, with submis-
sion to your Honorable Body, would Lay Down his Commis. to
and take up his musket; and to Convince your Honerable Body
that it is not any Disappointment to said State or County, there
is a gentleman ready to make application for the same.

I am, your humble servant to command,

CHARLES McLEAN.

STATE RECORDS.

GOV. ABNER NASH TO GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF N. C.

To the Honorable the General Assembly.
Gentlemen :
I thought it my duty, from intelligence rec'd last night, to order
the Town Militia to assemble in aid of the small force of Conti-
nental Troops now here; &, Gentlemen, it afforded me the highest
satisfaction to observe with how much readiness & alacrity the
members of the General Assembly took up arms for their defence.
Such an example cannot fail to have the most happy effects on our
fellow citizens ; and as this place is at present very defenceless, &
may become an object of importance in the eye of the Enemy on
account of your holding an Assembly here, I have, in order to
secure you effectually from any attempts of the Enemy, ordered
into town three companies of Foot and one of Horse to serve as a
Guard during your Session ; &, Gentlemen, I have been induced to
be more attentive to this important object from intelligence I have
rec'd, but which for the present I am not at liberty to disclose. I
have the honor to lay before you a Letter from Col. Kenan, on
which I wait for your advice, especially as it respects a subject I
had the honour to address you on yesterday. I have only to add
that the Gentleman I recommended to command your Cavalry
waits with anxiety to know your determinations. If he does not
meet with your approbation in the proposed project, his intention
is to proceed on his Journey to Philadelphia.

A. NASH.

JOHN WILCOX TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF N. C

To the Honourable the General Assembly now sitting, the
Memorial of John Wilcox
Humbly Sheweth,

That your Memorialist, at a very great expence, erected a fur-
nice & forge in Chatham County for the purpose of making Iron ;
that he hath supplied the army of the United States at different

STATE RECORDS.

times with iron to the amount of five tonns ■& upwards, which he
hath never received any kind of satisfaction for; that some time
in June last your Memorialist had the misfortune to lose his
Furnice by means of a very great fresh ; that your Memorialist is
entirely unable to repair his works again, unless this Hon'ble
House will be good enough to make him some satisfaction for the
Iron and sundry other things they have rec'd of him for the use
of the publick. Your Memorialist begs leave also to inform this
House that he stands in need of sundry workmen to compleat his
Business, which he is obliged to bring from the Northern States,
where, by the laws, they are exempt from Military duty, and refuse
to come to this State, unless they can also be exempt. Therefore
your Memorialist greatly hopes this Honble. House will take
these things into consideration and do what to them in their great
good sense seems right.

J. WILCOX.

PETITION OF CAPTAIN DE COTTINEAU.

To the Honorable Assembly of the State of North Carolina.
Gentlemen :
About fifteen days ago Captain Cotcineau came to this Town,
on purpose to represent to the Governor of this State that his
frigate, now lying in Cape Look-Out Bay, was not in Security, and
that she run'd the greatest risk of being insulted by the enemies
of America, which look upon the French to be their owne, Because
they assist this continent. Captain de Cottineau observed to the
Governor that besides the protection he had a right to claim from
this State, after the services that his cargo, which was considera-
ble, should prove to the state, (as much for the private wants as
for those of the army), it Became the dignity of the Government
to protect a stranger from the Coast as well as in the Harbours,
and to hinder the Enemies from coming in their ports to Destroy,
Burn or insult the ships which ought to be in safety in the said
ports and her harbour in regard to the Treaty of all the polished
Nations. The Governor answered to the said Captain that his
just demands requires some measures and Expences which he
could not take upon himself to perform ; But as the General Assem-

216 STATE RECORDS.

bly should set in a few days, he thought that his demands could
not bear the Least difficulty ; been very useful to the whole Conti-
nent, specially to this State, for it is true that Cape Look-Out for-
tifications could assure a retreat to all the Continental vessels as
well as to a great quantity of strangers, that the one as well as
the other might find a good shelter against the Winds and the
Enemies, this Bay been fortified should prove of a great advan-
tage to this State, being the only safe harbour from Cape Henry to
Cape Fear, where strangers may go in without danger and almost
without Pilots.

Captain de Cottineau has proposed to furnish 80 men and his
boats to build a fort at his own expences, and to pay a part of the
state charges on that purpose, even to put some of the frigate
guns upon it untill the Assembly should send some, and Monsieur
Le Chevalier De Cambray, officer of artillery, who came in this
country on purpose to serve under General Washington, has taken
the trouble of building the said fort, and showed to his Excellency
the Governor two different plans of the necessary fortification.
He had besides calculated what should be the amount of the
Expenses, and found it to be five thousand pounds ; but the Gov-
ernor made always the same answers and observations, and gave
Capt. De Cottineau an order for the Commander of the Militia at
Beaufordto give assistance in Case of attack from the enemy, as
the time was precious to Capt. De Cottineau. Mr. Nash, with
some more private gentlemen, made a subscription of 1,200 pounds,
which was sufficient for making some small augmentations only
to the fort that I had alieady begun for my own Security, which
I judge to be enough to repulse a frigate. In consequence of
these I bought several tools, and went to Beauford. Here I begun
to work with my Crew only, excepting six countrymen. There-
fore the fort is not done for want of good helping people.

'Here is a plan of the fort, together with Cape Lookout Bay,
which Monsieur De Cambray has drawned. I believe that this
Honorable Assembly will easily feel the importance of this new
and useful settlement, and Consequently will order the necessary
improvements, so as to enable him of net fearing any of the
enemies' attacks. Monsieur Le Chevalier De Cambray intends
(when he'll return here) to present before this Assembly a plan of
his Ideas in that respect. He is a gentleman of good character

STATE RECORDS. 217

and understanding, a brave officer and of excellent good conduct,
and very willing to be useful to the continent, which he has proved
already by remaining about a month's time upon the place where
is the fort. At his own Expences he made a voyage 'ere at
Newbern, which cost him above a hundred pounds, having had the
misfortune of Breaking a chair which was lended to him. This
sum may be nothing for others, But proves to be very considerable
to that officer who has no other property in this Country but the
desire of been useful.

I must observe that I have some true notions that the Captain
of the English man-of-war called the Emerald, who gave me a
chase from Chesapeake Bay, together with another frigate, natters
himself of destroying my frigate in any port of this continent, and
I know that he is disposed to come as soon as the weather will
permit. I share with ye gentlemen the insult of such a discourse,
But I can assure ye that the Emerald and her partner shall leave
their Ribbs upon the Coast if they prove so bold as to attack the
fort or my frigate. For those means, I expect that you'll be so
kind as to allow a strong guard to the fort. Then, to the satis-
faction of abating their Bravade, we shall have the pleasure of
having two enemies less.

"Whatever be your Designs, Gentlemen, give me leave to
Represent to this Honorable Assembly that ye cannot refuse to
order that a guard should be sent to the present fort with an
American flag, on purpose to protect such a good harbour as Cape
Lookout Bay is. I think that 50 or 60 men will be sufficient,
together with 25 I could send, in case of a near attack, to stand
against 250, if the Enemies was to land them there. I intend to
build a watch house or a Corps de guard to give necessary notice
to the Country Militia. Then I shall look upon the place to Be
without any Risk, the men of war not been able to approach.

In case you should meet with some Difficulties in regard of
sending proper guns to the fort, I can afford to offer 6 to this
state, of 4 pounders each, which I shall Leave here. They cost to
me 450 livres apiece in France, with all their furnitures. You
may reimburse to me whatever you'll please. I can all the same
leave two swivels with necessary Balls ; they serve now to defend
the fort's Ditch.

STATE RECORDS.

I must observe that this fort, sufficient for some time, requires
fifteen days' work with about 60 men to be perfectioned in its
capacity, with a small expences of one thousand pounds, without
Comprehending the house. Besides, Monsieur Le Chevalier De
Cambray, who understands very well these matters, shall instruct
you of all his performances.

As the fort is not yet finished, I cannot give an account of the
present expences to the subscribers, Because there was but a few
workmen of this Country, and that one pound of tobacco that I
allowed per day to every one of my crew is for my own account.
Therefore, I do not think that the 1200 pounds are yet over.

I beg, Gentlemen, that you would prove so kind as to protect
and send this Letter to the Congress hy which I ask to belntitled
by commission for Defending the Landing at Cape Lookout Bay;
and as I may be in that care from day to day, I hope you'll take
all my just demands into Consideration. Be persuaded that,
besides the obligations I shall be under towards this Honourable
Assembly on this occasion, nobody desires more than myself
success to the Continental arms, glory to the Congress and all the
chiefs, happiness to all the Americans and prosperity to this State.
DE COTTINEAU DE RLOGUEX. (?)

PETITION OF HENRY HINSON.

To the Honorable the General Assembly of the State of North
Carolina.

The Petition of Henry Hinson, Master of the Sloop called the
Mary, at present in the Port of Roanoke within the said State,
HuilBLT Sheweth,

That your Petitioner has lately arrived in this Country from
the Island of Bermuda, which he left the twenty second day of
October last, laden with the Articles of Salt, Brown Sugar, &c,
( the Particulars of which are given below, ) and that, at the Time
when your Petitiuner left the said Island, the Inhabitants ^vere in
great distress for want of Provisions, in consequence, in a great
measure, of the Embargo which had taken place on this Conti-
nent, from whence that Island has long been accustomed to draw
the Principal part of its subsistance.

STATE EECOEDS. 219

That the Inhabitants of that Island have been formerly greatly
indebted to the humanity of America in forming exceptions in
their favour, when there was a general prohibition of trade with
the Dominions of the British Empire ; and your Petitioner flat-
ters himself, when the necessity for so generous an interposition is
now equally urgent, it will not be withheld.

Your Petitioner with great humility takes the liberty to observe
that the Principal supplies this Continent has Received, in the
Time of her distress, of that indispensable article, Salt, have been
through the channel of Bermuda, the Inhabitants of which have,
with uniform firmness, in spite of every opposition, done all in
their power to effect the useful exchange of that Article for the
Provisions of this Country, so mutually advantageous to both.

Youi Petitioner, in consideration of the Promises, prays permis-
sion of your Honorable Body to load his said Vessel on her return
with Provisions for the use of the [inhabitants of that place.
And your Petitioner shall ever pray, &c.

HENRY HINSON.
Cargo, Viz :
700 Bush. Salt.
720 Gal. Molasses.
600 lbs. Brown Sugar.
2 Hhd. Rum.

SHERIFF'S PETITION.

Referred to Mr. Hawkins, Mr. Montford, Mr. Tripp, Mr. Wilson,
Mr. Phifor, Mr. Rowan.

State of North Carolina, Lincoln County.
To the Honorable the House of Sinnet and to the Worshipfull

the house of burgesses in assembly.

The petition of George Lamkin, Late Sheriff of Tryon County,
Humbly Shewetii,

That your Petitioner, in the year 1772, ye 27 Day of October,
Entered into the office of Sheriff, and Law Did not continue over
three Months in full force, and after Law Dropt your petitioner
Indeavoured to collect the taxes Due for that year, and got a lit-

STATE RECORDS.

tie over one hundred pounds, as will appear by the settlement
with Tryon Court. At that time Law Stoopt no trade nor money
to be got, so that people could not pay there Dues. I made Des-
tressonsum person's goods, but could not sell. Soon after there
was a Committee appointed in the county. Complaint being
made to yr. Committee, thought fit to stop your petitioner
from collecting or making Distress. Soone after your petitioner
moved to Examine the Sheriff's List before them, that I might
know how many persons was gone out of the Country since the
settlement with Tryon Court, and there was wantenl07 persons
that was taxt in yr. Sheriff's List. Soone after this the Indians
broke out and did drive all the county as Lo as buffalo Creek
50 miles in. Sum few got into forts, sum went to Virginia, sum,
went to ye South and Sum Down in this State, to the amount, by
My List, 257 taxable persons, and now the tory party has broke
out, being ye upper part of said County ; what feu was left
after ye Indians is now gone, so that it is impossible for your
Petitioner to make any collection; now therefore I humbly pray you
will take into your consideration that your petitioner may be dis-
charged, as I have none of the publick money in My hands but
what I have accounted for, and a ticket I tuck in after of Robert
Blackburn's, one of ye Burgesses, which I have sent Down ; and
your petitioner, as in Duty bound, shall pray.

GEORGE LAMKIN.

PETITION OF REV. MR. ADAM BOYD.
(Agreed to.)

To the Honorable General Assembly of the State of North Caro-
lina.
The Petition of the Rev. Mr. Adam Boyd
Humbly Sheweth,
That he hath obtained a furlough to be absent from his Brigade
until the Ensuing Spring. He therefore prays that Mr. Blood-
worth or Mr. Mallet, Contractors for the public, may be directed
to supply him with his rations and forage, due or to become due
to him, agreeable to the Continental arrangement, and as in duty
Bound he shall ever pray, &c.

ADAM BOYD.

STATE RECORDS. 221

THE PETITION OF CAPT. HANCE BOND.

To the Honorable the General Assembly of the State of North

Carolina now sitting.

The Petition of Hance Bond, Captain of Marines on board the
Ship Caswell,

Humbly Sheweth,

That your Petitioner hath served this State as Captain of
Marines on board the said ship Caswell eleven months under a
Commission from his Excellency, Governor Caswell ; that tbe said
ship is now laid up, and the materials, Stores and men are removed
on board the ship Washington. That your Petitioner, with his
Officers and Marines, have not received their pay ; he therefore
prays your Honoreto afford him such relief as you in your great
wisdom shall think proper, and your Petitioner, as in duty bound,
shall ever pray.

HANCE BOND.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF PRIVILEGES AND ELECTIONS.

The Committee, being informed that Mr. Cocke, who was
returned a member for Washington County, was Clerk of the
Court of said County, called Mr. Cocke before them, and upon
examination it appeared by a record from the Court of the Wash-
ington District, corroborated by the testimony of Charles Robin-
son, that he was elected Clerk of Washington District, now Wash-
ington County, on the fourth Tuesday in August, 1777 ;

Resolved, therefore, that Mr. Cocke, as being Clerk of a County
Court, is not entitled to keep his seat in the House of Commons.

The Committee, having taken into consideration the petition
of Clement Crocke, respecting the election of Isham Webb and
Joshua Swain, for Tyrrell County, and finding the same unsup-
ported by any Testimony, saving only a single Deposition taken
ex parte ;

Resolved, that the Election aforesaid is good and valid, and
that the said Swain and Webb ought to keep their seats.

STATE RECORDS.

The Committee, being informed that General. Butler, a member
for Orange County ; Colonel Jonas Johnston, for Edgecomb ; Mr.
William Robinson, for Pitt; and Mr. Timothy Bloodworth, for
New Hanover, were appointed Entry Takers in their several Conn-
ties, and, upon Enquiry, finding; the same to be true, proceeded
to consider the twenty-fifth section of the Constitution, whereby
it is declared that no person who heretofore has been, or hereafter
may be, a receiver of publick money, shall be entitled to a seat
in the General Assembly until he shall have fully accounted for
and pnid all monies for which he may be liable : Therefore it was
Resolved, as the Opinion of the Committee, that Entry Takers
come within the meaning of the aforesaid Section, and therefore
that General Butler. Colonel Jonas Johnston, Mr. William Rob-
inson and Mr. Timothy Bloodworth are not entitled to seats in
the House of Commons.

WILLIE JONES, Ch.

MEMORIAL OF JAMES DAVIS.

[Consideration, Wednesday.]

Mr. Davis begs leave to represent to the General Assembly that
the very extensive settlements of this State, and the great number
of counties into which it is erected, makes it impossible for him to
transmit the Acts of Assembly & Journals to the several Counties
as directed by Law. That he thinks the Justices of the several
Counties and Members of Assembly would receive them with
much greater certainty if they were sent to the Clerks of the
several District Courts, sealed up in Packets and directed to the
several Comity Court Clerks within the District, and that such
Clerks should send for them at the Expence of their Counties, and
be laid under an Injunction to deliver them to the several Justices
of the County. If this plan should be adopted, Mr. Davis could
deliver them to the several District Clerks much within the time
limited him by Law.

It is with much Reluctance that he makes any further Applica-
tion to the General Assembly with regard to his Salary, but, small
.as it is, should have been contented with it had it not been for the

STATE RECORDS.

very extraordinary Rise in Paper, that Article now selling at
Newbern from Eighty to one Hundred pounds per Ream, so that
if the Business of this Session should be of any Length, as it has
taken upwards of one hundred Copies of the Ants" of Assembly to
supply the State, it will require about thirty Reams of Paper to
complete them, amounting, at the present Price, to more than the
Salary allowed him for the services of the whole year. As it is
possible that the price of Paper may be lessened before the next
Session, all that Mr. Davis now requests of the Assembly is to be
allowed the sum that he may be obliged to advance for the Busi-
nessofthis Session only, and that, as he promises to procure Paper
on the best Terms he can, on his producing to his Excellency the
Governor an Account on Oath of such Charges, that he be
impowred to give him a warrant on any of the Treasurers for the
amount. Mr. Davis begs leave to represent to the General
Assembly the very great loss and inconvenience he has sustained
for two years past in printing the public business of this State.
That at the General Assembly in April, 1778, he was allowed
twelve hundred pounds per annum, to be paid half-yearly, which
sum, had it been regularly paid to him, was far inadequate to the
services he was obliged to perform, but as he never received it
until February last, he need nut inform the Assembly that the
depreciation of the currency had reduced it to about £25 real
value. That at the Assembly at Smithfield, as he could not
attend there in person, he laid before them a Memorial complain-
ing of the loss he was likely to sustain, but was unhappy enough
to receive no other consolation than being again appointed printer
to the state with a salarj of twenty five hundred pounds. If this
sum had been immediately advanced to him then, it would not
have reimbursed him the expence of paper and other charges he
was at in performing the business of one Session only; but as the
etate should not suffer for want of the Laws being published, he
undertook it cheerfully, in hopes of receiving satisfaction at the
next assembly. That happened at Halifax in October last, when
he attended there, and fully, as he thought, represented his griev-
ances to the Assembly. Tho' he was unfortunate enough to see
his most reasonable petition then opposed by some worthy
members of the assembly, yet he had hopes of redress, and left the
Assembly in full confidence of it. When the Gentlemen returned

224 STATE RECORDS.

from the Assembly he found that he had been totally neglected,
and not the least provision made for him. Surprised and
astonished at this conduct, as they had not only neglected him
but increased the duty on him by erecting four new counties, he
found himself under an absolute necessity of resigning the busi-
ness, as the article of paper had then risen to one hundred pounds
per ream. Of this resolution he informed the then Speaker of
the Senate, Mr. Coor, and several other Gentlemen ; they told him
that as the damage to the State, by not having the Laws published,
would be very great, and that however he had been neglected by
the Assembly at Halifax, it was certainly their intentions to pay
him very handsomely, therefore earnestly solicited him to publish
the business of the session. As he had not yet received any part
of the small salary allowed him, and the paper only, upwards of
twenty reams being requisite, required a large sum, he applyed to
the Governor and Council to advance him as much money as would
purchase it. They readily gave him a warrant on the treasury
for twenty-five hundred pounds, but still his hard fate pursued
him ; he could get no money, there being other warrants of
greater dignity. It then became necessary for him to advance
upwards of twenty-five hundred pounds before he could get the
laws published. When the Gentlemen of the Assembly met here
in February last they were delivered to the members of the sev-
eral counties that then appeared, and were all sent but four or five
of the "Western Counties.

He now begs leave to acquaint the general assembly that he
has served them two years ; has printed and published the Laws
and Journals of four Sessions, which has taken 70 or SO reams of
paper; has advanced large sums of money for transmitting them
to the several counties, for journeymen's wages, and every other
article requisite for supporting his office, and has not received
more than 20 or 30 pounds cf real value, besides about as much
money as paid for the paper used for the business of last Session,
which he received only a few weeks ago. He therefore relies on
the justice of the assembly, and hopes they will now grant him a
sum adequate to his past services. He also begs leave to inform
them that, when this country had about thirty counties only, and
the justices and others whom he was obliged to supply with copies
of the several acts of the assembly amounted to about 500, he was

STATE RECORDS. 225

allowed £250 per annum. That there are now 50 counties in this
state ; the number of justices and members of Assembly is upwards
of 1,500, and the business of the state increased to four times
what it then was, and he imagines that he need not inform the
Gentlemen of the assembly from the western Counties who have
travelled to this assembly of the very great sum it will take to
transmit the laws thro' this extensive state. There are repeated
complaints that all the justices of the several counties do not get
the laws, but when it is considered that when they are delivered
out of his hands they are then out of his power, the neglect can-
not be justly charged on him, for he cannot by any art he is mas-
ter of convey them to their right owners after he has parted with
them ; but the truth is, the clerks to whom they are always directed
do not faithfully deliver them, and untill they are made account-
able for all they receive it will he in vain for him to send them.

Upon the whole, Mr. Davis thinks that the printing and pub-
lishing the Laws and journals of the assembly is now become a
matter of very great consequence to the state; that it is now one
of the most expensive civil departments, and requires no small
share of attention to perform it with accuracy and precision.
That if they will now give him a salary sufficient in real money,
not subject to any depreciation, he will undertake to serve them
in such a manner that there shall be no just complaint.

JAMES DAVIS.

GOV. ABNER NASH TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

To the Honorable the General Assembly.
Gentlemen :
I am very glad an opportunity is at last afforded me of address-
ing you in Gen. Assembly, and I believe I may truly say there
never has been a time before in which the united wisdom of the
state was more perfectly called aloud for than the present. You
have seen the neighboring states of Georgia and S. Carolina fall,
one after the other, into the hands of the Enemy, & you see the
people of those states, lately so free and happy, now groaning
under every degree of wretchedness that Lawless power can inflict.
15—15

226 STATE RECORDS.

All these evils, Gentlemen, and more than I can describe, await
us, and will sooner or later he our inevitable fate, unless proper
measures are speedily taken to avert them. No one can, I pre-
sume, have a doubt respecting the immediate designs of the Enemy
agst. this state ; their plan of policy pursued of late plainly points
them out. In point of conquest we stand next in rotation, and
indeed had it not been for the bravery and public spirit that of
late has so immenently distinguished the good people of this
State, there is no saying how far the Enemy's views might not
have been effected before this Hour. These people, not waiting
for the calls of government, nobly stept forth in defence of their
common rights, and under every disadvantage they attacked,
defeated, and finally expelled the Enemy from the state. These
great and memorable actions, together with the successes of the
militia agst. the Enemy in the District of Edenton and other parts
of the State, have had the most extensive and important good
consequences. At the same time that they struck the Enemy
with consternation, they animated the rest of our citizens and
taught them to know their own strength, & perhaps it affords you,
Gentlemen, this happy opportunity of further providing for the
general safety by adopting such wise measures as will in future
bring forth the strength and resources of the whole country. By
wise Laws this may be effected, but so long as you trust to the
uncertain and unequal, and I may say oppressive, method of seiz-
ing and impressing for the support of the army, the public bur-
thens will be so unequal, and the supplies so difficult of collection,
that I fear nothing but distress and disappointment will be the
fruit of your endeavors. Could this plan of impressment be made
to fall on the monopolist only, he who takes his measures with a
view to his own interest, regardless of the public calamities, the
measures would consist with good policy ; but to make it fall on
the industrious citizen, he who by his Labour has acquired some-
thing over and above the wants of his family and his proportion
of the public wants, to subject his house to a search, & his produce
on the road for market to seizure, is impolitic, because, by its
direct tendency to discourage industry, a fatal scarcity of the nec-
essaries of Life in a short time must be the inevitable consequence.
I admit that in cases of extreme necessity every sovereign state has
a right to impress for the public security, but it is the necessity

STATE EECORDS. 227

of the case only that will justify the measure ; &, Gentlemen, I
beg you will consider how different that is from a Law authoriz-
ing general impressment as an ordinary means of providing for
the army. The Acts of Congress, Original Letters, and other
state papers which I have the honor to lay before you are so full
& pathetic on this subject that, added to what I have said & your
own reflection, I am persuaded you will, on. this important occa-
sion, take such measures as will answer the reasonable expecta-
tions of Congress, & thereby secure effectually the freedom and
independence of the state.

I wish it were in my power, Gentlemen, to give you a satisfac-
tory account of the operations of our principal army to the west-
ward, and of the progress made by your officers & commissioners
in providing magazines of provisions & other military stores. In
the common course of things, no doubt it might be expected of
me to be able to give some account of these public transactions ;
But, Gentlemen, at your last session at Hillsborough, for reasons
unknown to me, it was thought expedient (as I conceive it) to
change our form of Govenment ; for By your Acts you have effect
ually transferred the powers vested by the constitution in the
Governor into the hands of commissioners. As I said, T am entirely
ignorant of the causes which lead to this strange resolution. In the
preceding April I had been elected into office by a very large
majority of the General Assembly. This mark of confidence, added
to the affectionate manner in which the honours of my appoint-
ment were conferred upon me, impressed me with the deepest
sense of gratitude ; &, anxious for an opportunity to render some
service to my country suitable to the rank I held in it, I applied
to the assembly for their approbation to proceed myself into South
Carolina with the aid intended for the relief of that state; but, as
I was informed, the measure was at this time thought inadvisable
on account of the dangers apprehended from the disaffected within
the state, & I was better satisfied with the will of the assembly, as
the command was, on that important occasion, given to one of your
worthiest citizens, one who with reputation had filled the highest
offices in the state, & who had been experienced in military affairs,
an advantage I could not boast of. Since then, Gentlemen, I
have constantly exerted my best abilities, such as they are, for the
public good, and upon the strictest self-examination I am not con-

STATE RECORDS.

scious of having done any thing, or omitted to do any thing, in my
public character but with a direct view to the Honor and interest
of my country. When you elected me governor of the State you
presented me the Bill of rights and the constitution. At the same
time you presented me with the Sword of the state as an emblem
of the power I was invested with for the protection of the constitu-
tion and the rights pf the people, and in a solemn manner you
bound me by an oath to preserve the constitution inviolate; and
yet four months after my Election the very same assembly deprived
me of almost every power, privilege and authority belonging to
my office. My authority as commander in chief of the militia is
abolished, & every officer and commissioner of the state, your chief
magistrate not excepted, is made amenable & subject to a controul
of a board of war. They are impowered to direct me when and
in what numbers to call out the militia, & when called out they
are to direct what post they are to occupy and what expeditions
they are to undertake ; in short, from having a right to the chief
direction, I have now no right even to a share in the councils of
administration. In consequence of these measures I have been
excluded from all intelligence or correspondence with the army ;
the commanding officer of your militia has honoured me, it is true,
with one Letter since his appointment to the supreme command,
as it is termed, but this was only to acknowledge the recpt. of
mine, sent express to advise him of Gen. Leslie's having left Vir-
ginia. I have no doubt that the secret Enemies of our Free con-
stitution exult at the introduction of such an innovation, & rejoice
at seoing the first officer in the state rendered useless and contempti-
ble; but I question if you, Gentlemen, upon experience, will find any
good consequences to result from such experiments. On the con-
trary, the worst of consequences are, in my opinion, jtistly to be
apprehended from them, & particularly from weakening instead
of strengthening the hands of government in times of imminent
danger.

I readily acknowledge the merit of the Gentlemen who compose
the board of War, & that I thought the establishment of such a
board necessary. I also thought it necessary that extraordinary
powers should be lodged somewhere, equal to the exigency of
the times &, agreeably to the recommendation of Congress, to be
exercised on extraordinary occasions; and being not ambitious of

STATE RECORDS. 229

power myself, I recommended that the extraordinary power should
be in the Board of war, so as to make them a legal Basis for the
support of the Executive ; & this, as expressed by"Congress, might
have been in lieu of the assembly sitting constantly. But instead
of giving them powers which lie dormant except when the assem-
bly are in session, you give them powers comprehending, and of
course superceeding, those of the Executive, which are never Dor-
mant. In short, Gentlemen, I hold at preseut but an empty title,
neither serviceable to the people nor honorable to myself. It will
therefore become an act of necessity, however disagreeable at a
time like this, that I resign my office, unless you restore it to a
condition as respectable as it was when you did me the honour to
confer it upon me.

A. NASH.

COL. MALMEDY TO THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY.

To the honourable representatives of North Carolina.
Gentlemen :

I do wish that the committee my address was referred to
had agreed with the opinion of General Greene respecting the
advantage of raising a body of Light horse, and that the hon-
ourable assembly be pleased to honour me with the command of
that corps.

If you do, gentlemen, I beg Leave to offer yo\i my opinion upon
the means to raise and enable them to take the field instantly, and
render Essential and speedy services. Any volunteer who will
enter that corps, to serve twelve months, and furnish himself with
a good horse, shall be free of being drafted for the continental
services ; and after his time will be expired he shall enjoy the
exemption of any duty for twelve months.

It may be observed that these volunteers will have some ten-
dence against raising of your continentals ; I beg Leave to answer
to it. If you intend to draft one of thirteen, a body of 390 vol-
unteers will reduce your continental Line only of 30 men ; will
not 390 volunteers Light horse, raised in fifteen days, render more
services, in a time of an invasion, than 30 continental soldiers who
cannot meet so soon to the general rendezvous ?

STATE RECORDS.

With regard to the accoutrements, I beg Leave to consent
with the quartermaster of the state if there are no adequate sup-
plies in the public stores. I request as aparticular favour that the
honourable assembly will grant me the Leave to exert myself for
putting that corps in a situation of serving instantly.

I entreat, gentlemen, that you would discriminate the motives
of my Earnestness; the Enemy are on your frontiers, in your country.

My attachment for the common cause, particularly for your
State, and my honour urge me to repair to the field as far as possi-
ble ; and any provision you will be pleased to make for me I shall
be perfectly satisfied with.

With due respect, I have the honour to be, gentlemen,

Your most obedient, very humble servant,

MALMEDY.

REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE REPRESENTING THE MARQUIS OF
BRETIGNY AND COLO. MALMEDY.

The Committee appointed to take into consideration the Memo-
rial of Colo. Malmedy, the Marquis of Britainy, and Other Papers
laid before them, beg leave to report as followeth :

It is the Opinion of your Committee that Colo. Malmedy is an
experienced and brave Officer, and that your Committee have the
highest sense of his attachment to the Common Cause of America,
& do recommend him in the strongest terms to the Legslative or
Supreme Executive Powers of this State for a Command suitable
to his Dignity, Bravery, Military Skill and experience ; and
further, resolved,

That his Excellency the Governor be requested to acquaint the
Marquis of Britaigny of the great estimation iu which he is held
in the General Assembly, and that he may rest assured of the
good intentions of this Country towards him, and that as soon as
opportunity serves he may depend on their making ample pro-
vision for him, and in the mean time be it recommended to his
Excellency the Governor to grant him the commission of Inspec-
tor General to the State and Military Troops now to be raised.
THOMAS PERSON, Chair'm.

STATE RECORDS.

COL. MALMEDT TO THE REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE
OF NORTH CAROLINA.

To the Honourable Representatives of the State of North Carolina.
Gentlemen :

I think myself very much honored with the resolve that you
were pleased to pass yesterday in my favour, and I entreat that
the assurances of my first gratitude might be agreeable to the
house. Permit me, gentlemen, to observe that that resolve has
no support whatever with my petition. I beg leave to Explain it
ultimately in its proper sense.

In the month of September last I had the honor of offering you
a memorial upon the raising of a corps of horse, which the gov-
ernor countenanced so far as to render me very anxious to return
instantly from Philadelphia to camp.

In the month of December General Smallwood, after the resig-
nation of General Harrington, petitioned to the board of war
my Employment to the Cheraws as a partisan. Colonel Martin
promised to use all of his power & influence in order that the
appointment might take place instantly.

Flattering myself that the assembly would take a favourable
notice of these different applications, & acceed to, I communica-
ted it to General Greene, and in the mean time my opinion upon
the essential services which a solid corps of horse would render in
this critical moment.

The general approved perfectly of it ; he wrote consequently to
the assembly, and in order to accelerate the formation of a corps
which might be armed expeditiously when an immediate rein-
forcement should be wanted. I had undergone the hardships &
Extravagant Expences of a long journey, & I repaired to Halifax.
I did myself the honour of transmitting to you the lettei of Gen-
eral Greene upon that subject, and addressed a skeeme for raising
a corps of 390 Light horse, that any volunteer who will serve in
that corps for six or twelve months, & furnish himself with a
good horse, shall be free of being drafted for the continental serv-
ice, and after his time expires shall enjoy, the privileges of a
continental soldier.

As you intend to draft one of thirteen, these 390 volunteers
would have diminished your continental Line only of 30 soldiers;

STATE RECOKDS.

and I thought that 390 volunteers raised instantly would render,
in this moment, greater services than 30 soldiers whose raising
will yet encounter many obstacles.

With regard to the accoutrements, I beg Leave to make myself
provisions for, if there was not a sufficient quantity of in your
public stores.

Instead of agreeing to that plan, you were pleased to appoint
me to the command of 300 Light horse, to march- instantly to
the southward. I thought myself very happy in being in a situa-
tion of rendering some services ; but in the next session you super-
ceeded me, not by an officer of my rank, or next to, but by a
captain who never discovered more activity than I did since the
year 1776 ; and I am superceeded with the unfortunate objec-
tion that I am a foreign officer.

Be pleased, gentlemen, to indulge the expression of my sensibil-
ity ; that way of superceeding is deeply impressed in my breast.

As the resolve you passed yesterday Evening has no support at
all with the object of General Greene, & Urge, I beg, to be
excused ; and without departing from the respect I owe to the
assembly & general Caswell, I shall not rely upon an unused
provision, which might be rendered again unsettled by some
intrigues or national prejudices.

If I do not quit instantly the southern department, even the
American army, I shall return to the army where I came from.

From the candid mode of expressing my sentiments, it will be
perhaps inferred that my attachment is Lessened. No, gentlemen,
when the friendship which your soldiers and the well-affected peo-
ple has showed me, in the field and at home, reccur to me, when I
think that I am a Frenchman, I am begoed (?) upon any private
resentment, and I as a patriot do wish with the utmost sincerity
and warmness the success & prosperity of the State of North
Carolina.

I had the honour to apply yesterday for a copy of the Letter of
General Greene, of the report of your committee, & the three
covering my appointment, superceeded & directed to

STATE RECORDS. 233

General Caswell. I beg that the honorable assembly would grant
me that ultimate favour.

With due respect, 1 have the honour to be, gentlemen,

Your most obedt., "Very humble servant,

MALMEDY.

THE PETITION OF Le CHEVALIER DeCAMBRAT.

To the Honourable Assembly of North Carolina.
Gentlemen :

"When I first began to Establish a fort at Cape Lookout Bay I had
no other design, no other view but the good of this State by the
great advantages she may get from it. I don't intend to sett a
price on my Labours ; self-interest cannot prevail nor even guide
me.

If I prove successful in contributing to the public good, my
reward far extendeth my desires and if this Honourable Assembly
approve of my performances her Commendation is the only price
I expect for my labours.

I am sorry to hear, Gentlemen, that ye intend to indemnify me
by a sum of money for my stay untill now in the state for the
publick service which detained me from joining the Continental
army. My Delicacy is much offended by such a reward. Is it
not possible to alter your Resolution ? If it is not, I beg that the
eum appointed on the treasury should be destined to finish fort
Hancock, or employed on other works which may be useful to
the publick good, for I declare to this Honourable Assembly that
I will not receive the least thing on that account.

I submit to your knowledge, Gentlemen, the plan of Cape
Lookout Bay, with the situation of Fort Hancock, together with
a plan of the said fort.

I confess freely that the fort is not as I intended it to be, but
as the Circumstances have permitted. Those Circumstances, to
avoid a long tale of its particulars, are, in a few words, the cause
of its not being as I should like it to be. The fort is not finished
for want of help. What is done I have done it with almost
nothing, and have put it in a manner of being finished according
to the plan.

STATE EECORDS.

I have sacrificed a very precious time, which I do not regret,
having employed it for the service of this State. I cannot sacri-
fice any more without proving myself reprehensible ; therefore I
intend to make all the haste possible on purpose to join the con-
tinental army. In Consequence, I beg the Honourable Assembly
to give me some Letters for the Congress, and for his Excellency
General Washington, justifying my zeal for the publick Good, and
the uninterestedness with which I undertook a painful work,
though common to every friend to humanity and natural to every
true citizen. All the reward that I desire from every American is
to be known under that prospect.

I shall always do my best endeavours to prove useful to this state,
but at this time I make my duty to fly to the Continental army
and pat myself under General Washington's Commands. I shall
be flattered if I can prove useful to this State again.

I beg leave tr> represent to this Honourable Assembly that a
fort cannot defend himself if it is not defended by a good garrison,
therefore Fort Hancock requires one of fifty or sixty men. It is
even necessary to send some guns of about eighteen-pounders, for
the more this fort shall be fortified the more he'll prove advan-
tageous to the whole Continent. In going to Cape Lookout on
purpose to establish the fort, I unfortunately broke a Chaise
belonging to Mrs. Bartholomew, of Beaufort ; and as I should be
afraid to offend the inhabitants of this state if I was to take this
charge upon myself, I therefore leave it to your Disposition.

I finish by entreating the Honourable Assembly to look upon
me as one of the greatest partisans of the Common cause. It
is in hopes of Contributing to its success that I left my country.
I do not desire anything so eagerly as to fiud some occasion to
prove ye, Gentlemen, the ardour and sincerity of

Your most humble and most obedient Servant,

Le CHEV. DeCAMBEAY,

Cap. d'Artillerie.

STATE RECORDS.

JOHN WALTON'S PETITION.

To the Honourable Assembly of the State of North Carolina.

The Petition of John "Walton, an inhabitant of Franklin County,
Humbly Sheweth,

That your Petitioner, in the month of May last, being informed
of the surrender of Charlestown and of the rappid march of the
Enemy through the Country, Conceived it the duty of every good
Citizen to take up arms and stand forthwith in the defence of his
Country Your Petitioner turned out as a volunteer with Capt.
Harrison Macon, under the command of Colo. Benjamin Seawell.
Colo. Seawell being sent back to take charge of the new Levies, your
Petitioner was put under the Command of Colo. Benjamin Exum, &
under his command was carried into action near Camden, where
your Petitioner received a ball through His right Shouldoer, which
shattered the bone in such a manner that your Petitioner has lost
the use of his arm, it being Perrished away and the sinews Entirely
Contracted, by which means your Petitioner is rendered unable to
labour for h s Living ; and as your Petitioner is but a poor man, and
no friends able to assist him, he submits his case to your Hon-
ourable Body, trusting that you, in your humanity & wisdom, will
make such Provision for his support and maintenance as you in
your wise deliberations shall think Expedient, and your Petitioner,
as in duty bound, will Ever pray, <fcc.

JOHN WALTON.

State No Carolina, Franklin County.
I do hereby Certify that the within John Walton, the Petitioner,
was a volunteer in Capt. Harrison Macon's Company belonging
to my regiment. The said John Walton has always appeared
very forward in the defence of his Country, as also the whole of
his Brothers. He's scarcely seventeen years of age, but he has for
near these three years been forward to turn out. He is very badly
wounded, by no means able, nor do I believe he ever will be able,
to Labour sufficient to maintain himself. He has, as it appears to me,
lost the use of His Right arm. 1 believe the whole of the subject
matter set forth in his Petition is truth.

BENJ. SEAWELL.

236 STATE RECORDS.

PETITION OF JOHN EVANS.

To the Honourable the General Assembly for the State of North
Carolina, Now assembled at Wake Courthouse.
The petition of John Evans, of Nash County,

Humbly Sheweth,
That on a certain day a party of the Nash Light Horse came
to his house, & took your petitioner into custody, & carried him to
Nash Courthouse, there was put under guard by the Orders of
Maj. Wood, then Cornd't, & threatened your petitioner with
hanging, A Gallows being erected on the spot, which Terrified
your Petitioner to such a Degree that he consented to Enlist for
Eighteen months. Your Petitioner inquired of the officers what
his crime was. They answered that he wanted to take up arms &
join the insurgents in Edgecombe, & went the length of Dun-
can Lamon's, to take his advice what to do in Regard to taking up
arms or not, which charge is quite false, as Col. Hunter and Clinch
is since convinced of. Your Petitioner humbly prays that your
Honours, in your great wisdom, will Take your Petitioner's Case
under your serious Consideration, and Order your Petitioner to be
Discharged from the duty of Eighteen Months, & your Petitioner,
as in duty Bound, will ever Pray.

JOHN EVANS.

STATE RECORDS.

POLL BOOK OF WILMINGTON, 1780.

VOTES FOR SENATOR.

VOTES FOR COMMONERS.

VOTES FOR A MEMBER
FOR XE. TOWN.

John DuBois.

John Cowan.

John DuBois.

John Cowan.

Alex. Wilson.

Duncan Nelson.

Charles Bishop.

Issaac Portewine.

James Mansfield.

Peter Batston.

James Devane.

James White.

James Evans.

Edmund Moore.

George Jacobs.

William Walker.

Peter Portewine.

Abram Roberts.

John Jones.

Thos. Rogers.

William Grant.

Alex. Wilson.

James Molpus.

James Walker.

Thomas Hoseley.

Jacob Powell.

William Evans.

James Hall.

Wanny McLammy.

David Flowers. 10

Isaac Portewine.

James Hall.

Elias Howell.

James Devane.

Dan Atkinson.

Wm. Howard.

David Flowers.

George Moore.

John Gordon.

William Howard.

Charles Bishop.

John Ferguson.

Peter Portewine.

Peter Batston.

Thomas Graham.

John Gordon.

George Newton.

David Forbes.

David Forbes.

James Portwine.

John Downie.

Thos. Rogers.

Jacob Stoakley.

William Todd.

James Molpus.

Thomas Simmons.

James Henderson.

Jacob Powell.

Ewd. Spearman.

James Geekie. 20

Wanny McLammy.

John Simpson.
Peter McLammy.

James Bradley.

Dan'l Atkinson.

John Kirkwood.

George Moore.

John A. Campbell.

Thos. Stoakley.

James Geekie.

James Kennear.

John Smith.

George Newton.

Henry Molpus.

Thos. Stead.

James Bradley.

James Hysmith.

James Bland.

James Portewine

Jeremiah Doan.

Henry Brooks.

Jacob Stoakley.

Wm. Sharpless.

Thomas Flere.

John Kirkwood.

James Wright.

Dan'l Bernard.

Thomas Simmons.

Joel Parish.

Richard Player. 30

Ewd. Spearman.

James Middleton.

Wm. Maxwell.

John Simpson.
Peter McLammy.

John Nichols.

Thomas Scott.

Dan'l McKenney.

James Spiller.

John A. Campbell.

Henry Waters.

David Bassett.

Francis Harvey.

John Sykes.

Richard Bradly.

Wm. Maxwell.

Thomas Davis.

John Gillard.

James Kinnear.

Mauris Jones.

John Drummond.

Henry Molpus.

Walter Ross.

Martin Lenard.

James Hysmith.

Ezekiel Morgan.

James Harper.

Jeremiah Doan.

John Swan Jones.,

Lee Dickeyson. 40

Wm. Hewit.

John Murphy.

Peter Harris.

James Wright.

William Hill.

(Jeorge Smith.

John Miller.

John Miller.

Henry McLorinan.

Joel Parish.

James Doty.

Thomas Harris.

Daniel Wheeton.

Alex. Rouse.

Petter Harris, sen.

James Middleton.

Daniel Wheeton.

James McKinney.

John Nichols.

Francis Harvey.

Florence McCarthy.

Daniel McKenney.

John Wright. "

John Hopkins.

Henry Waters.

John New.

Robert Bannerman.

John Sykes.

Isaac Lamb.

Thomas Henderson. 50

Thomas Davis.

John Averyson.

Francis Bruie.

Maurice Jones.

Phillip Kivenbark.
Wm. Williamson.

David Ross.

Walter Ross.

John McKay.

Henry Rooks.

Parker Quince.

John Nutt.

Ezekiel Morgan.

Thos. Devane.

Thomas Brown.

John Swan Jones.

Jacob Williams.

William Player.

John Murphy.

Thomas Mosely.

William Wilkinson.

Wm. Hill.

Samuel Webb.

James Tate.

Richard Player.

James Bordeaux.

Hugh Walker.

James Doty.

|john Devane.

Wm. Baker. 60

STATE EECOEDS.

POLL BOOK OP WILMINGTON, 1780

.— Continues.

VOTES FOR SENATOR.

VOTES FOR COMMONERS.

VOTES FOR A MEMBER
FOR YE. TOWN.

Alex. Rouse.

Thomas Bloodworth.

Joseph Bland.

James Spiller.

John Riley.
William Hooper.

James Jones.

John Wright.

Thomas Nichols.

John New.

William Mosely.

Arch. Ronaldson.

Isaac Lamb.

Geo. McCulloek.

Barrier Steed.

John Averyson.

Sam'l Bunting.

Jacob Friout.

Phillip Rivenbark.

Robert Woodside.

Robert Johnston.

James Harper.

Thomas AVoodside.

John Ringrose.

Lee Dickeyson.

Richard Miller.

Elijah Crandle.

Parker Quince.

Thomas Player.

John Moore. 70

Henry McLoriman.

Edmund Corbin.

William Green.

Thos. Devane.

George Blythe.

Thomas McLaine.

Jacob Williams.

Owen Kenan.

Henry Young.

Robt. Baniierman.

Caleb Grainger.

Thomas Wilson.

Francis Brice.

John James.

John Jas. Ward.

Thomas Cunningham.

John Larkins.

Andrew Thomson.

Sam'l Webb.

David Pollock.

Henry Toomer.

Thos. Henderson.

James Holland.

Alex. Hostler.

John Nutt.

James Bloodworth.

John Walker.

William Wilkinson.

Sam. Ashe.

John Fergus. 80

James Tate.

John Gerrard.

Erasmus Hanson.

George St. George.

James Ervin.

Sam. Campbell.

James Bourdeaux.

Henry Gamellion.

And. Ronaldson. S3

John Devane.

Thos. Bloodworth.

John Riley.

Wm. Hooper.

William Mosely.

Arch. Ronaldson.

George McCulloek. 90

Samuel Bunting.

Robert Woodside.

Thomas Woodside.

John Ringrose.

Elijah Crandle.

William Green.

Richard Miller.

Thos. Player.

Edm. Corbin.

George Blythe. 100

Henry Young.

Owen Kenan.

Caleb Grainger.

John James.

Hugh Walker.
And. Thomson.

Henry Toomer.

Alex. Hostler.

John Walker.

James Bloodworth. 110

John Gerrard.

John Fergus.

Sam. Campbell.

And. Ronaldson.

Janies Ervin. 115

A true list of the poll.

THOS. JONES,
Sheriff New Hanover County.

STATE RECORDS.

EXTRACTS FROM CORRESPONDENCE BETWEEN LORD CORNWALLIS AND
SIR HENRY CLINTON.

SIR HENRY CLINTON'S "OBSERVATIONS."

No person can be more ready than I am to admit the difficul-
ties Lord Cornwallis had to struggle with ; and I shall always
acknowledge that I expected success (notwithstanding) from his
Lordship's abilities. I left his Lordship in the Caroliuas, with
every power, civil and military, which I could give him, to carry
on such operations as he should judge most likely to complete
their reduction. Where I had hopes of success I studiously
sought to approve without reserve. And, as long as I imagined
his Lordship to be in sufficient force, and in other respects pre-
pared and competent to give the experiment of supporting our
friends in North Carolina a fair and solid trial, I certainly
approved. But after the unfortunate day of Cowpens, which
diminished his Lordship's acting army nearly one-fourth, and
after he thought proper to destroy a great part of bis waggons,
provant trains, &c, (whereby he was reduced, I fear, to some-
thing too like a Tartar move,) had it been possible for him to
have consulted me, he would have found that, could I have even
consented to his persisting in his march into that province, that
consent must have totally rested upon the high opinion I enter-
tained of his Lordship's exertions, and not on any other flattering
prospect I had of success.

Major Ferguson's misfortune was one of those untoward circum-
stances which Lord Cornwallis says occurred during the four
months succeeding the battle of Camden. His Lordship, imme-
diately after the complete victory he there obtained, ordered our
friends in North Carolina to arm and intercept the beaten army of
General Gates, promising them at the same time that he would
march directly to the borders of that province in their support.
About this time Major Ferguson was detached to a distance from
his Lordship with a body of militia, (without being supported by

STATE EECOEDS.

regular troops,) under an idea that he could make them fight, not-
withstanding his Lordship had informed me, some little time before,,
that it was contrary to the experience of the army, as well as of
Major Ferguson himself. The consequence was that the Major
and his whole corps were unfortunately massacred. Lord Corn-
wallis was, immediately upon hearing of this event, obliged to
quit the borders of North Carolina, and leave our friends there at
the mercy of an inveterate enemy, whose power became irresist-
able by this necessary retreat. This fatal catastrophe, moreover,
lost his Lordship the whole militia of Ninety-Six, amounting
to four thousand men, and even threw South Carolina into a
state of confusion and rebellion.

How nearly the force I left with Lord Cornwallis in the
Southern district, and what I afterwards sent to him, might
have been adequate or not to the success expected from it, I
shall not now examine. It is all I could possibly spare. But
for the satisfaction of the public I shall give, at the end of
the Appendix, a view of the force first left with his Lordship, of
what was sent him afterwards, and of what was finally under his
Lordship's orders throughout the whole extent of his command,
to contrast with which I shall add also another view of the force
left under my own immediate orders at New York at different
periods, giving, at the same time, as near a calculation as I can
make from the intelligence received of the number of regular
troops which the enemy had opposed to each of us. I beg leave
likewise to mention that before I sailed from Charlestown I offered
to Lord Cornwallis all he wished, all he wanted, of every sort,
and that his Lordship expressed himself to be perfectly satisfied
with the troops he had, and wished for no more, as will appear
from the letters annexed. What the exact strength of the corps
under his Lordship's immediate command may have been at any
given period I cannot ascertain, as I had no regular returns of
them ; but his Lordship did not make any complaint to me of the
smallness of his force when he commenced his move into North
Carolina, and I always thought it to be fully as large as I rated
it at.

I cannot judge of the assurances of co-operation which Lord
Cornwallis may have received from our friends in North Carolina
but from his report; and his Lordship best knows whether he

STATE RECORDS.

received any after the effects of Major Ferguson's misfortune were
Jcnoiun. But his Lordship cannot forget that our friends, who had
risen by his order, were left exposed to ruin by retreat, and num-
bers of them actually massacred. I am therefore at a loss to guess
what may have been his Lordship's reasons for being surprised
that they failed to join him after the victory at Guilford, as such
efforts of loyalty could scarcely be expected of them after their
past sufferings, when they saw his Lordship's army so greatly
reduced after the action, and so scantily supplied with provisions,
which, without doubt, was very far short of that solid support
which they had been encouraged to expect from his Lordship's
promises. And indeed his Lordship might have supposed that these
were their sentiments from what followed, as described by him-
self: " Many of them rode into camp, shook me by the hand, said
they were glad to see us, and to hear that we had beat Greene,
and then rode home again," no doubt with aching hearts, from
the melancholy scene his Lordship's camp, encumbered with a
long train of sick and wounded, exhibited to their view.

LORD CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

December 3d, 1780.
(Extract.)

" Lord Rawdon, during my illness, informed your Excellency, in
his letters of the 28th and 31st of October, of the various causes
which prevented my penetrating into North Carolina. I shall
not trouble you with a recapitulation, except a few words about
poor Major Ferguson. I had the honour to inform your Excel-
lency that Major Ferguson had taken infinite pains with some of
the militia of Ninety-six. He obtained my permission to make an
excursion into Tryon county, while the sickness of my army pre-
vented my moving. As he had only militia, and the small remains
of his own corps, without baggage or artillery, and as he prom-
ised to come hack if he heard of any superior force, I thought he
could do no harm, and might help to keep alive the spirit of our
friends in North Carolina, which might be damped by the slow-
ness of our motions. The event proved unfortunate, without any
15—16

242 STATE RECORDS.

fault of Major Ferguson's. A numerous and M«fflj)«cfe(i enemy
came from the mountains. As they had good horses, their move-
ments were rapid. Major Ferguson was tempted to stay near the
mountains longer than he intended, in hopes of cutting off Col-
onel Clarke on his return from Georgia. He was not aware that
the enemy was so near him ; and in endeavoring to execute my
orders of passing the Catauba, and joining me at Charlotte-Town,
he was attacked by a very superior force, and defeated on King's
Mountain."

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO EARL CORNWALLIS.

Chaeles-town, May 17, 1780.
[Extract.]

Your Lordship has already with you (i?i the field) two thousand
five hundred and forty-two rank and file ; but if you have the
least reason to suppose the enemy to be in great number, you shall
be reinforced with the forty-second, the light infantry and any
other corps you choose. As your move is important, it must not
be stinted. I will give you all you wish of every sort. Let me
but know what it is as soon as possible. In the mean time, I shall
order the light infantry and forty-second regiment to prep-are,
depending upon it that as soon as you can spare them yon will
return them to me, for all operations to the Northward must be
cramped without them. If you choose to keep the seventeenth
dragoons, you are heartily welcome to them during this move.

EARL CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Camp at Manigolds, May 18, 1780.
Sir:
Lieutenant Colonel Webster arrived this morning and informed
me of the message which you sent by him, relative to reinforcing
the corps under my command. The service on which I am going
is undoubtedly of the most important nature, and in my opinion,
without some success in the back country, our success at Charles-

STATE REGOEDS.

town would but little promote the interests of Great Britain. But
at the same time it is necessary that your situation to the North-
ward should be respectable. It would be with great regret that
I should see you leave behind any of that corps destined for your
first embarkation. The garrison, then, of Charles-town and Sulli-
van's Island will consist of three British regiments, two of them
very weak, and two Hessian and one weak provincial, the latter
of which, perhaps, will be sent to Fort Moultrie. This garrison
will have charge of two thousand five hundred prisoners. The
corps at present under my command is, in my opinion, fully equal
to the purpose intended by it, unless some considerable reinforce-
ment of Continentals should come from the Northward. I have
not yet heard that fact ascertained by any intelligence which has
come to my knowledge. If the troops are on their march, and
not very near, your embarkation given out publicly for the Chesaa-
peak will probably stop them. I think, therefore, Sir, if you
please, with proper deference and submission to your opinion,
that the business may be settled in the following manner: If no
certain intelligence arrives before you are ready to sail of a con-
siderable corps of Continental troops being far advanced, that the
disposition should then remain the same which you mentioned
when I had the honour of seeing you. If such intelligence arrives
before that time, I should then wish to be joined by five or six
hundred men, either British or Hessian, and to submit to your
judgement on the spot from whence they could be best supplied.
I think, at all events, Lieutenant Colonel Balfour's expedition
should go immediately, as the season of the year makes it neces-
sary that he should lose no time. The more pains that can be
taken to establish the belief of your going to Virginia the greater
will be the probability of stopping their reinforcements.
I am, tfec,

CORNWALLIS.

STATE RECORDS.

EARL CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Camp at Manigolds, May 19, 1780.
(Extract.)
Sik:
I received very early this morning the favour of your letter by
Lieutenant-colonel Innes, to which the letter I had the honour of
sending to you yesterday by Major Dansey will serve as an answer.
I can only add that I have received no intelligence whatever of
reinforcements coming to the enemy from the Northward, or of
their being in force in this province.

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO EARL CORNWALLIS.

Chakles-town, May 20, 1780.
(Extract.)

The light infantry and forty-second regiment march this even-
ing to Goose-creek, and thence to Monk's-corner, where they will
remain at your Lordship's call, in readiness either to join yon or
to return and embark, as shall become expedient.

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO EARL CORNWALLIS.

Charles-town, May 20, 1780.
(Extract.)

Every jealousy has been and will be given on my part, as a
blind to our real intentions.

And now, my Lord, having entered into everything that occurs
to me as necessary to be thought on at present, I heartily wish
success to' your important move. I cannot doubt of your having
it, for as much as I agree with you that success at Charleston,
unless followed in the back country, will be of little avail, so
much I am persuaded that, by taking that place in the advantage-
ous manner we have done it, insures the reduction of this and the
next province, if the temper of our friends in those districts is
such as it has always been represented to us.

STATE EECOEDS.

EARL CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Camp at Lenews, East Side of Santee,

May 21, 1780.

(Extract.)

The march of the light infantry and forty-second to Monk's-
corner will be of use to those corps, and will help to spread alarm
through the country ; but from what I hear, I do not believe that
there can be any necessity for detaining any part of the first
embarkation a moment after the ships are ready for them.

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO EARL CORNWALLIS.

Chaeles-town, June 1, 1780.
(Extract.)

We shall probably leave this in a day or two. I dare not be so
sanguine as to suppose that your business will be compleated in
time for us to meet before I sail, and onr communication will
become precarious. I think it necessary to give your Lordship
outlines of my intentions where your Lordship is likely to bear a
part. Your Lordship knows it was a part of my plan to have
gone into Chesapeak-bay, but I am apprehensive the information
which the Admiral and I received may make if necessary for him
mble his fleet at New York, in which case I shall go there
likewise. When your Lordship has finished your campaign, yen
will be better able to judge what is necessary to be done to secure
South and recover North Carolina. Perhaps it may be nee
to send the galleys and some troops int.. Cape Fear, to awe the
lower counties, by far the most hostile of that province, and to
prevent the conveyance of succors by inland navigation, the only
communication that will probably remain with the northern parts
of North Carolina and Virginia. Should your Lordship so far
succeed in both provinces as to be satisfied they are safe from any
attack during the approaching season, after leaving a sufficient
force in garrison, and such other posts as you think necessary, and
such troops by way of moving corps as you shall think sufficient,
added to such provincial and militia corps as you shall judge

246 STATE RECORDS.

proper to raise, I should wish you to assist in operations which
will certainly be carried on in the Chesapeak as soon as we are
relieved from our apprehensions of a superior fleet, and the season
will admit of it in that climate. This may happen, perhaps, about
September, or, if not, early in October. I am clear this should not
be attempted without a great naval force ; I am not' so clear there
should be a great land force. I therefore propose that your Lord-
ship, with what you can spare at this time from your important
post, which is always to be considered as th- principal object,
may meet the Admiral, who will bring with him such additional
force as I can spare into the Chesapeak. I should recommend, in
the first place, that one or two armed ships, vigilants, should be pre-
pared, and that as many gallies as can go to sea may likewise
accompany you from hence Our first object will probably be the
taking post at Norfolk or Suffolk, or near the Hampton Road, and
then proceeding up the Chesapeak to Baltimore. I shall not pre-
sume to say anything by way of instruction to your Lordship,
except in articles where you wish it; and if you will do m*e the
honor to inform me of your wishes by the first safe opportunity, I
shall pay every attention to them, upon that subject or any other.
The Admiral assures me that there will be ships enough left for con-
voy, ready by the 24th of June. Your Lordship will be the best
judge what use can be made of them. Correspondence may, and I
hope will, be kept up by the cruizers, which the Admiral and offi-
cer stationed here will have ; but if you find it necessary, you will
be so good to press or hire armed vessels.

INSTRUCTIONS TO LIEUT. GENERAL EARL CORNWALLIS.

Head Quarters, Charles Tows, 1st June, 1780.
My Lord,

Upon my departure from hence you will be pleased to take
the Command of the Troops mentioned in the inclosed Return,
and of all other Troops now here, or that may arrive in
my absence. Your Lordship will make such change in the Posi-
tion ofthem as youmay judge most conducive to His Majesty's Serv-
ice for the defence of this important Post and its dependencies. At

STATE RECORDS. 247

the same time it is by no means my Intention to prevent your
acting offensively, in case an opportunity should offer consistent
with the Security of this place, which is always to be regarded as
a primary object.

All Provision and Military Stores of every Denomination now
here, or which may hereafter arrive, are submitted to your Lordship's
orders, together with every Power you may find necessary to
enforce, in my absence, for the promotion of the King's Service.
To this end the Principals in Departments, and the Inspector-
General of the Provincial Forces, who has the charge of the Stores
designed for their use, are directed to give in returns to you of the
States of their several Departments, so far as respects their Stores
in possession, and of every other particular relative to their
Trusts which can tend to your fullest Information, Communicat-
ing to you at the same time their general Instructions from me.
I am persuaded I need not recommend the utmost Economy in
the Issue of Ordnance and other Stores, and particularly of the
Arms, of which there are two thousand Stored in Boxes, and about
Eight Hundred Serviceable, and as many more repairable, which
were saved out of the Magazine that was blown up.

Your Situation in respect to the two Floridas and Georgia will
naturally engage you in a correspondence with the Officers Com-
manding his Majesty's Troops in each of those Posts. Wherefore
it is my desire that all Letters directed for me from thence should
"be opened by your Lordship, and that you may give such orders
thereupon as the Exigencies of the Service may require, forward-
ing to me the Letters so received, and a report of your orders in
consequence, to which, of course, those Officers will pay due
obedience.

Mr. Newton, Assistant Deputy Paymaster General, has orders
to receive your Lordship's "Warrant for Pay or Subsistence in all
cases as final, and to furnish Money upon your Warrants on the
requisition of the Publick Departments, or on account of Contin-
gencies, the Vouchers for the Disbursements of the first of
which, after being submitted to your Lordship's Inspection, will,
of course, remain with the Principals, as they are amenable to
Government. And your Lordship will be pleased to transmit to
me, at the close of every Quarter, a list of the Warrants you have
issued for Extraordinaries within that Period.

STATE RECORDS.

A number of Blank Warrants for Presidents, and Deputations
forjudge Advocates, will be delivered to you for holding General
Courts Martial. And I do hereby authorize and appoint you to
approve of the Sentences of such Courts in all Cases not Capital,
if in your Judgement the necessity of the case should require it,
excepting only the reduction of Commissioned Officers, unless
under very favorable Circumstances.

Major Moncrief, of the Corps of Enginers, will communicate to
you the Orders he has received for the Services required for that
Department, which are, however, Submitted to your Lordship's
future Instructions.

It is my Intention that the Troopers belonging to the Detach-
ment of the 17th Light Dragoons now here shall follow me as
soon as the Service will admit of it, and proper vessels under a
Convoy provided for Transporting them. I am therefore to
desire that they may be held in readiness to Embark accordingly.

Having Judged it to be for the good of His Majesty's Service
that some fit and qualified persons should be appointed to superin-
tend the Militia in the Southern Provinces, I have made choice
of Major Ferguson of the "1st Regiment and Captain Hanger of
the Corps of Jagers for that Service. And I have accordingly
given them Commissions appointing Major Ferguson Inspector of
Militia and Major Commandant of the First Battalion of Militia
to be raised, and Captain Hanger Deputy Inspector with the
Brevet Rank of Major of Militia, with Orders to Major Ferguson
to lay his Instructions before your Lordship, and pay all due
obedience to such Regulations and Commands, in everything
respecting his Department, as you may think proper to give Him.

Whenever any Packet or advice Boat may arrive here from
Europe, your Lordship will 'be pleased to order, them to proceed to
the Army, having first taken from the Mails all Letters for the
Troops under your Command. These Packets will return with
my Dispatches, without touching at any Port after the receipt of
them. But care will always be taken to give your Lordship the
earliest account of the Time intended for their Sailing, that your
Dispatches and all Letters from hence may arrive in time to go by
them.

In order that I may be furnished with every Information neces-
sary to be Communicated to the Secretary of State for His Maj-

STATE RECORDS.

esty's Information, or to the other Departments of office, I am to
request you will, fiom Time to Time, communicate to me such
Intelligence as you may think Interesting to His Majesty's Service ;
that you will report the arrival of all Stores and Troops from
Europe ; and more particularly I beg to be informed of every
thing relative to your own immediate Situation, with' a foil assur-
ance of a like Communication on my part.

I understand that Captn. Henry is to remain here in the Com-
mand of the Naval Force. His zeal for the Service will, of course,
lead him to Co-operate with your Lordship in every measure that
can promote it. Your applications to him for the Conveyance of
your Dispatches at any time will, I am persuaded, be readily
Complied with.

I have the honor to be, &c,

H. CLINTON.
Lieutenant-General Earl Cornwallis.

EARL CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Charlestown, June 30th, L780.
Earl Cornwallis to Sir Henry Clinton, K. B , dated June 30th,

1780. Received by Lieut. Gordon, of tin- 16th .Foot. August

1st. No. 66.
Sir :

In my letter-from Camden, of the '2d instant, I had the honor
to inform you that I was employ'd in regulating the Militia &
establishing some kind of government in this Province; and I
likewise mentioned the state, & the steps that I had taken rela-
tive to our friends in North Carolina. I will first proceed with
the affairs of S. Carolina. As the different districts submitted I,
with all the dispatch in my power, formed them into Militia &
appointed Field Officers, according to the old divisions of the
Province: I invested these Field Officers with civil as well as
Military power, as the most effectual means of preserving order
& re-establishing the King's authority in this Country. I divided
the Militia into two classes, the first to consist of men above 40,
& of certain property, family or service, this Class to be depended

250 STATE RECORDS.

iipon for the preservation of order in their respective districts &
to do the Patrole Duty, but never to be call'd out except in case
of an insurrection or an actual invasion of the Province. The
second Class, composed of the younger men, not only to assist in
the home duties, bnt liable to be call'd out for six of each twelve
months to serve in either of the Carolinas or Georgia, Prom-
ising, however, to call upon this Class in such proportions as to
occasion the least distress possible to the Country. This Militia,
both Officers & Soldiers, is composed of Men either of undoubted
attachment to the cause of Great Britain, or whose behaviour has
always been moderate; And the Field Officeis of the Rebel Mili-
tia, Members of their Council, Assembly Men & acting Magis-
trates were ordered to go on their Paroles to the Islands on the
Coast between Charlestown & Beaufort, to remain there untill
their Conduct & Character could be inquired into, & that their
Presence in the Country might not awe those that were inclined
to return to their duty, ct our friends from assuming the
Authority necessary to give Vigour to our Government. The
rest of those that were notoriously disaffected I ordered to be dis-
armed & to remain at Home on their parole, but subject, in lieu
of personal services, to furnish moderate contributions of provis-
ions, waggons, horses, etc., towards carrying on the War. About
this time 1 readily agreed to a proposal made by a Mr. Harrison
to raise a Provincial Corps of 500 Men, with the Rank of Major,
to be composed of the Natives of the Country between the Pedee
& Wateree, and in which it is at present extremely probable that
He will succeed.

I had advanced thus far when 1 was met on the 11th of this-
month by two Gentlemen, one of whom had been in an high
station, & both principally concerned in the Rebellion, who said
that they were come to surrender upon the Proclamation of the
Commissioners of the 1st of June. However extraordinary it
might appear to them, I was forced to acknowledge that no-
Proclamation of that date had been communicated to me, & that
consequently I could not acquiesce in the terms of their proffer'd
submission ; and indeed, when I saw that Proclamation, as well as
your Excellence's of the third of June, which was soon after
transmitted to me, I found that those Gentlemen had overstrained
the meaning of the first ; For upon considering both, I thought

STATE RECORDS.

myself at liberty to persevere in sending on Parole to the Islands
the Field Officers of Militia, the members of Council, Assembly
men, Acting Magistrates, &c, the first as falling under the excep-
tion of the Military line in your Excellency's Proclamation, &
the remainder as under the description of those polluted with the
blood of their fellow subjects, excepted by the Proclamation of
the Commissioners. This measure appeared absolutely necessary
for the security of the Province, especially as our hold is much
loosen'd of a considerable number of People who, being notori-
ously disaffected, cannot with prudence be trusted with arms &
admitted into the Militia, but are disengaged from their Paroles
by the Proclamation of the third instant. The submission of
Gen. Williamson at Ninety-six, whose Capitulation I inclose with
Capt. Paris's Letter, & the dispersion of a Party of Rebels who
had assembled at an Iron work on the North West border of the
Province, by a detachment of Dragoons ifc Militia from Lt. Col.
Turnbnll, put an end to all resistarce in South Carolina. After
having made the following dispositions of the troops, I arrived in
Town on the 25th : Major McArtbur with the 71st Regt., a Troop
of Dragoons & a six-pounder on the Cheraw Hill, with orders to-
cover the raising of Majr. Harrison's Corps & to establish the
Militia in the districts on the Pedee ; The remainder of Lt. Col'
Webster?s Brigade, & the Provincials that marched with me &
Brown's Corps remain at Camden, and Lt. Col. Turnbull's, with
some Cavalry, at Rocky Mount, The whole under the command
of Lord Rawdon. Lt. Col. Balfour's detachment is dispersed
from the forks of Santee, by the Congarees, to Ninety-Six,
whilst He & Lt. Col. limes A: Majr. Graham are giving orders
for the Militia of those districts. I have ordered Major Ferguson
to visit every district in the Province, as fast as they can get the
Militia establish'd, to procure lists of each & to see that my orders
are carried into execution. I apprehend that his Commission of
Major Commandant of a Regiment of Militia can only take place
in case a part of the 2d Class should be call'd out for service,
the home duty being more that of a Justice of the Peace tha
of a Soldier. I have given to the Militia Regts. temporary Co n
missions, which perhaps your Excellency will find more con-
venient to confirm by a line in your next dispatch than to take
the trouble of signing;, as the number for the whole Province

STATE RECORDS.

•will amount to some hundreds. I have had some conversations
•with B. Genl. Paterson & Mr. Simpson, & have made a little
Progress in the arrangement of this Place.

In regard to North Carolina I have established the most satis-
factory correspondence, A: have seen several people of credit &
undoubted fidelity from that Province; They all agree in assur-
ances of the good disposition of a considerable Body of the inhab-
itants, & of the impossibility of subsisting a Body of Troops in
that Country till the Harvest is over. This reason, the Heat of
the Summer, & the unsettled state of South Carolina, all con-
curr'd to convince me of the necessity of Postponing offensive
operations on that side untill the latter end of August or begin-
ning of September, and in consequence I sent Emissaries to the
leading Persons amongst our friends, recommending in the strong-
est terms that they should attend to their harvest, prepare pro-
visions, and remain quiet until! the King's Troops were ready to
enter the Province ;" Notwithstanding these precautions I am
sorry to say that a considerable number of the loyal Inhabitants
of Tryon County, encouraged and headed by a Col. Moore, whom
I know nothing of, ifc excited by the sanguine emissaries of the
very sanguine and imprudent Lt. Col Hamilton, rose on the 18th
Instant without order or caution, ife were iu a few days defeated by
Genl. Rutherford with some loss. I still hope this unlucky busi-
ness will not materially affect the general Plan, or occasion any
commotions on the frontiers of the Province. The force of the enem}'
in North Carolina consists of about 1,000 Militia at Cross Creek
under Genl. Caswell ; -i or 500 Militia, under General Rutherford,
at or near Salisbury, and 300 Virginians in that neighborhood
under Col. Porterlield. Monsr. Treville returned with informa-
tion that he saw 2,000 Maryland and Delaware troops at Hills-
borough under Majr. Genl. de Kalb, other accounts have corre-
sponded with his, but I have since heard that the greatest part of
the last have returned to Virginia.

After having thus fully stated the present situation of the two
Carolinas, I shall now take the liberty of giving my opinion with
respect to the Practicability and the probable effect of further
operations in this quarter, and my own intentions, if not other-
ways directed by your Excellency. I think that with the force
at present under my command (.except that there should be a con-

STATE RECORDS. 253

siderable Eoreign interference) I can leave South Carolina in
security, & march, about the beginning of September, with a body
of Troops into the back part of North Carolina with the greatest
probability of rediicing that Province to its duty ; And if this be
accomplished, I am of opinion that (besides the advantage of
possessing so valuable a Province) it would prove an effectual
Barrier for S. Carolina & Georgia, and could be kept, with the
assistance of our friends there, by as few Troops as would be
wanted on the Borders of this Province, if N. Carolina should
remain in the hands of our Enemies. Consequently if your
Excellency should continue to think it expedient to employ part
of the Troops at present in this Province in operations in the
Chesapeak, there will be as .many to spare as if we did not possess
.N. Carolina. If I am not honour'd with different directions from
your Excellency before that time, I shall take my measures for
beginning the execution of the above Plan about the latter end
of August or beginning of September, & shall apply to the Officer
Commanding His Majesty's Ships for some Co-operation by Cape
Fear, which at present would be burdensome to the Navy, »fe not
of much importance to the service.

I have seen a letter from St. Augustine which mentions that two
Officers had arrived there from Peusacola, who reported that Don
Galvez was at Mobile when they came away, & short of provisions,
& that the Mentor had taken three Spanish Victuallers on their
passage from the Havannah to Mobile, & brought them into Pen-
sacola.

1 shall immediately, in compliance with the directions contained
in your letter of the 8th of June, order proper people to examine
the receipts granted for cattle previous to the taking of Charles-
town, & to certify such as they think ought to be paid ; a great
number of Claims are likewise made for provisions deliver'd to the
troops through the Commissary of Captures, and for which no
receipts were given ; These Claims shall undergo the same exami-
nation as the receipts, & shall depend upon similar certificates ;
you will be pleased to direct from what fund the whole sum when
ascertained is to bepaid.

I opened the enclosed letter from Governor Tryon, but as the
point appears to me to be out of the common line of Indian busi-
ness, and the service suffers no inconvenience from a little delay,

■254 STATE RECORDS.

I herewith send Mr. Moore's letter to Genl. Patterson on the sub-
ject, and have likewise directed Mr. Moore to transmit his other
papers to N. York for your Excellency's determination. Mr.
Graham, Lt. Governor of Georgia, has presented an account of
money advanced to Refugees, to which is added a charge of
twenty shillings per diem to the 24th of June as Inspector of
Refugees in Georgia ; But as He informs me that his Commission
for that office is not sign'd, I beg to know your pleasure whether
this account is to be allow'd. I must likewise beg to know whether
the Pay is to be continued to the Commissaries of Captures, ifc if
it is to what fund it is to be charged ; or if your intention is that it
should cease whilst the Troops are inactive ; whether you wish that
•when the Troops take the field the office should be revived in the
Persons of the present Commissaries.

Judge Pendleton, who, in his Judicial character, committed a
number of barbarous Murders on the Persons of His Majesty's
loyal subjects, has escaped from his Parole, and I find by Returns
which I call'd for that not less than 500 Continental Prisoners
'have made their escape since the Town was taken. I have now
taken measures which I hope will enable us to keep those that
tremain untill an exchange can take Place.

B.-Genl. Paterson shewed me a letter which He received from
Majr. Andre relative to the Genl. Court Martial, left with him, in
which He expressed your desire that I should give my opinion of
the proper objects of mercy or severity. I must lament the fate of
those unhappy people who have been & must remain solong con-
fined, but as all those under sentence of death are convicted of
desertion & carrying arms against their country, I cannot bring
myself to say that they are proper objects of mercy.

The Morning that I left Camden I had the honour to receive
your Excellency's Dispatches & Instructions that had been left in
charge of B. Genl. Paterson. Your Excellency may depend on my
utmost attention to them, and on my zeal in fulfilling your wishes
in every respect. The Detachment of the 17th Dragoons will sail
for New York with the first Convoy, which Capt. Henry informs
-me will be in a week or ten days ; and now I think, having com-
pleatly tired both your Excellency & myself, I shall only add that,
I have the honour to be,

Your most obedient and most Humble Servant,

CORNWALLIS.

STATE RECORDS. 255

P. S. The letters & papers, said to be inclosed, were sent with
the 1st copy, & unluckily it was omitted to take copies of them.
His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, Kt. B., &c, &c, &c.

LORD CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRI! CLINTON.

Chaelestown, 14th July, 1780.
Sir:

About the time that the Beaumont sailed with my last letters,
Lieut. Gordon of the 16th Regt. arrived with Dispatches from
General Campbell at Pensacola, which he will have the honour of
delivering to Your Excellency. I was extremely sorry to learn
that the State of the Place, & that of their Enemies in the Neigh-
bourhood of it, were very different from what I had heard a few
days before, through the Channel of a private Letter from St.
Augustine ; And I am the more concerned, as the relative Situa-
tion of this Place, the State of the Naval Affairs here, & the pres-
ent condition of the province, render it utterly impossible for me
to give Assistance. For to attempt it with any degree of prudence,
and to do it effectually, a Convoy would be wanted, of more con-
siderable Force than could be given from hence, and a greater
detachment of Troops than could be spared, consistent with the
security of this important Province ; and indeed I think it right to
take this opportunity of remarking to Your Excellency that, if
even Pensacola should escape the present danger, the Navigation
of a Fleet of Transports from North America must always be
tedious and difficult, and much exposed to the Cruisers from St.
Domingo. I should therefore be of opinion that it would be for-
tunate if His Majesty's Ministers would think proper to annex it
to the Jamaica Command, to which it is contiguous, & from which
it might be speedily supported.

In case of a Misfortune at Pensacola, St. Augustine becomes a
Frontier in this Quarter, & I think I shall direct Lieut. Colonel
Clarke to take the Command there, with the Regiment ofWissen-
bach and some Provincials, & remove the detachments ot the 60th
(upon which, from their composition, there can be no great depen-

256 STATE RECORDS.

dence) to Savannah, to assist in the interior business of the prov-
ince ; For with East Florida in our possession on one Side,
& South Carolina on the other, it is not probable that Georgia can
be an object to a foreign Enemy.

Since my arrival at this place I have been employed in the
internal Regulations of the Province, & settling the Militia of the
lower districts, both of which are in forwardness, & I have kept
up a constant correspondence with the Frontiers & the interior
parts of .North Carolina, where the Aspect of Affairs is not so
peaceable as when I wrote last. Majr. General de Kalb is cer-
tainly at Hilsborough with 2,000 continental Troops, including
some Cavalry, & said to be preparing to advance to Salisbury ;
Porterfield is in the Neighborhood of Salisbury with 300 Vir-
ginians, & Rutherford with some Militia with him ; Caswell with
1,500 Militia is march'd from Cross Creek to the Deep River,
between Hillsborough & Salisbury, and Sumpter, with about the
same Number of Militia, is advanced as far as the Catauba Set-
tlement. Lord Rawdon reports to me that many of the disaffected
South Carolinians from the Waxhaw, and other Settlements on the
Frontier, whom he had put on parole, have availed themselves of
the general Release of the 20th of June, & have joined General
Sumpter.

Accounts from Virginia, thro' different Chaanels, say that two
Thousand five hundred of their Militia had followed de Kalb,
that the Assembly had voted five thousand men to be immediately
drafted, to serve as a Corps of Observation, & had vested their
Governor with absolute power during their Recess. The Gov-
ernment of North Carolina is likewise making great exertions to
raise Troops, & persecute our Friends in the most cruel manner,
in consequence of which Colonel Bryan, altho' he had promised
to wait for my orders, lost all patience, & rose with about 800 men
on the Yadkin, and by a difficult & dangerous March joined Major
McArthur on the Borders of Anson County; about two thirds
only of his People were armed, & those I believe but indiffer-
ently.

The Effects of the exertions which the Enemy are making in
those two Provinces will, I make no doubt, be exaggerated to us ;
But upon the whole there is every reason to believe that their
Plan is not only to defend North Carolina but to commence offen-

STATE RECORDS.

sive Operations immediately, which reduces me to the Necessity,
if I wanted the inclination, of following the Plan which I had the
Honour of transmitting to Your Excellency in my Letter of the
30th June, as the most effectual means of keeping up the Spirits
of our Friends & securing this Province. To enable me to begin,
I am first using every possible dispatch in transporting to Camden
Enm, Salt, Regimental Stores, Arms & Ammunition, which, on
Account of the distance & excessive heat of the Season, is a work
of infinite Labour & requires a considerable time. In the mean
while, the measures that I have directed Lord Rawdon to take
will, I trust, put it out of the power of the Enemy to strike a blow
at any of our Detachments, or to make any considerable Inroads
into this Province. I have the Satisfaction to assure Your Excel-
lency that the Numbers & Disposition of our Militia equal my
most sanguine expectations. But still I must confess that their
want of Subordination & Confidence in themselves will make a
considerable regular Force always necessary for the defence of the
province untill North Carolina is perfectly reduced. It will be
needless to attempt to take any considerable Number of the South
Carolina Militia with us when we advance; they can only be looked
upon as light Troops, it we shall find Friends enough in the Prov-
ince of the same Quality, & we must not undertake to supply too
many useless Months.

When the Troops march into North" Carolina, it will be
absolutely necessary to get supplies up some of the principal
Rivers of that Province. I therefore thought it proper to apply
to Captain Henry to detain the Sandwich, which will be more
useful to us than any Frigate in the Service, & could not, in my
opinion, be much wanted at New York, where the Admiral will
have it in his power to fit up so many Vessels of the same kind.
Captain Henry has consented, & I hope with her Assistance and
the Galleys to procure a tolerable water communication pretty
high up in the Country. The bringing the troops down toward
the Coast before the Month of November would be leading them
to certain destruction.

I have agreed to the proposal of Mr. Cunningham in the Ninety-
six District to raise a Corps on the footing of Major Harrison's,
which I believe will be the last Provincial Corps that I shall

15—17

STATE RECORDS.

attempt. I have rejected all plans for raising Cavalry, except the
Augmentation of the Legion to seventy men a troop.

I inclose a duplicate of a Letter from Governor Tryon with
some accounts ; the former ones were, I believe, forwarded to You
by Brigr. General Paterson.

It gave me great pleasure to hear last night by a Vessel from
New York of Your Excellency's safe Arrival.
I have the honour to be,

Your most Obedient & most humble Servant,

CORNWALLIS.
His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, K. B., &c, &c, &c.

EARL CORNWALLIS To SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Chaelestown, August 6th, 1780.
Sir:
I received by Major England your letters of the 14th & 15th of
July, and am very glad to find by the latter that you do. not place
much dependence on receiving troops from hence. My letter of
the 14th, by the Halifax, will have convinced you of the impossi-
bility of weakening the force in this Province, and every thing
which has happened since that time tends more strongly to
confirm it. The general State of things in the two Provinces of
No. & So. Carolina is not very materially altered since my Letters
of the 14th & 15th of last . Month were written. Frequent
skirmishes, with various Success, have happened in the Country
between the Catauba River & Broad River. The Militia about
Tiger & Ennoree rivers was formed by us under a Colonel
Floyd ; Col. Neale, the Rebel Colonel, had Fled, but Lt. Col.
Lisle, who had been Paroled to the Islands, exchanged on his
arrival in Charlestown his Parole for a Certificate of his being a
good Subject, returned to the Country and carried off the whole
Battalion to join General Sumpter at Catauba. We have not,
however, on the whole, lost ground in that part of the Country.

STATE RECORDS.

Turn-bull was Attacked at "Rocky Mount by Sumpter with about
1,200 men, Militia & Refugees from this Province, whom he
repulsed with great loss. We had on our part an Officer Killed
& one wounded, & about ten or twelve men killed & wounded.
Col. Turnbull's conduct was very meritorious. The affair of
Capt. Houck turned out of less consequence than it appeared .at
first ; the Captain and three men of the Legion were killed, and
Seven men of the New York Volunteers taken.

On the Eastern part of the Province we have been more unfor-
tunate ; Major, McArthur, seeing the great importance of the Post
at Cheraw Hill, and finding himself perfectly secure from any
Attack of the Enemy, desired to continue there longer than it
was intended he should when I had the honour of writing to
you on the 15th. At last, howeVer, the 71st Regiment grew so
exceedingly Sickly that He found it absolutely necessary to move,
and marched on the 21th to the East Branch of Linche's Creek.
Gates, who has taken the command of de Kalb's Corps, was still
on Deep River, and Rutherford no further advanced than Rocky
River, Pedee. Knowing of no Enemy within many Miles, he
ventured to send about one hundred Sick in Boats down the
Pedee to George town. By this time the reports industriously
propagated in this Province of a large Army coming from the
Northward had very much intimidated our friends, encouraged
our enemies, and determined the wavering against us, to which
our not advancing and acting offensively likewise contributed.
Col. Mills, who commanded the Militia of the Cheraw District,
tho' a very good Man, had not complied with my instructions in
forming his Corps, but had placed more faith in Oaths and pro-
fessions, and attended less to the former conduct of those whom
he admitted. The instant that this Militia found that McArthur
had left his Post, & were assured that Gates would come there
the next clay, they seized their own Officers and a hundred Sick,
& carried them all prisoners into North Caroliua. Col. Mills
with difficulty made his escape to Georgetown, where I was
much alarmed for Wemys, whose party was much weakened by
sickness. The whole Country between Pedee & Santee has
ever since been in an absolute State of Rebellion ; every friend of
Government has been carried off and his Plantation destroyed ; and
detachments of the enemy have appeared on the Santee and

STATE RECORDS.

threatened our Stores & Convoys on that river. I have not
heard that they have as yet made any attempt on them, & I hope
by this time that the steps I have taken will secure them. This
unfortunate business, if it should have no worse consequences,
will shake the confidence of our friends in this Province & make
our situation very uneasy until we can advance.

The Wheat harvest in North Carolina is now over, but the
weather is still excessively hot ; and notwithstanding our utmost
exertions, a great part of the Rum, Salt, Clothing and necessaries
for the Soldiers, and the Arms for the Provincials & Ammunition
for the Troops are not very far advanced on their way to Camden.
However, if no material interruption happens, this business will
be nearly accomplished in a fortnight or three "Weeks. It may
be doubted by some whether the* Invasion of North Carolina may
be a prudent measure, but I am convinced it is a necessary one,
and that if we do not Attack that Province we must give up both
South Carolina and Georgia & retire within the Walls of Charles
town. Our assurances of Attachment from our poor distressed
Friends in North Carolina are as strong as ever, and the patience
& fortitude with which those unhappy People bear the most
oppressive and cruel Tyrrany that was ever exercised over any
Country deserves our greatest admiration. The Highlanders have
offered to form a Regiment as soon as we enter the Country, &
have desired that Governor Martin may be their Chief. I have
consented, with the rank of Lieut Colonel Commandant. The
Men, they assure us, are already engaged.

An early diversion in my favour in Chesapeak Bay will be of
the greatest and most important advantage to my operations. I
most earnestly hope that the Admiral will be able to spare a Con-
voy for that purpose.

As Major Graham's Corps grew very weak, and was very une-
qually composed, some of the Men of the 16th being totally unfit
for Light Infanti-y, and the Major himself is not in a good state
of health, I thought it best to break up that Corps. The 71st I
shall send to their Regiment, except as many as will compleat
those already with Tarletou to a Troop of 70. The Provincials
will likewise join their respective Corps, & the detachment of

STATE EECOEDS. 261

the 16th, consisting of about 60 men, will be attached to the Field
Artillery, except 17 or IS, who are represented to me to be active
young men, and whom I intend at present to lend to Tarleton.

I propose taking the following Corps with me into North Caro-
lina: 23d, 33d, 63d, 71st, Volunteers of Ireland, Hamilton's,
Harrison's new raised Legion Cavalry & Infantry, & North Caro-
lina Refugees. I intend to leave on the Frontiers from Pedee to
Waxhaw, to awe the disaffected, who, I am sorry to say, are still
very numerous in that Country, & to prevent any Insurrections
in our rear, the N. York Volunteers & Brown's Corps, & some of
the Militia of the Camden district, who are commanded by Col.
Rugeley, a very active & spirited man. I shall place Ferguson's
Corps & some Militia of the Ninety-Six district, which Col. Bal-
four assures me have got into very tolerable order, owing to the
great assiduity of Ferguson, on the borders of Tryon County, with
directions for him to advance with a part of them into the Mount-
ains and secure the left of our March. Lieut. Colonel Cruger,
who Commands at Ninety-Six, will have his own Corps, Innes's,
& the remainder of the Militia of that district to preserve that
Frontier, which requires great attention, & where there are many
disaffected & many constantly in Arms: Allen's Corps, and for a
time the Florida Bangers, are stationed at Augusta, under the
command of Lieut. Colonel Allen, He being, by all "Accounts, a
much properer Man than Col. Brown to trust with commands.
Besides, the latter will have sufficient business in the Indian
department.

Poor Hanger is always willing to do his best, but he did not
think that he should be very useful in collecting the lists, fixing
the Officers & establishing the Militia in the different districts,
and as he found that the Attempt would take him up many Months,
& would be entirely a civil employment, He beg'd that he might
act as a Volunteer Major of Tarleton's Cavalry. As Tarleton
6eemed to wish it very much, I have given my consent until
your pleasure shall be known.

Major Stuart is rather inconveniently placed with the 63d Reg-
iment, and as He and Major Wemys are not on very good terms,
& the Regiment being joined with other Troops would occasion a
constant change of command from one to the other, which would
be prejudicial to the Regiment and the service, I have given him

STATE RECORDS.

leave to go to New York, where, he tells me, he was appointed to
remain as Major of Brigade before the sailing of the Expedition.
Major Graham has no further duty to detain him here, his Corps
being dissolved. I beg leave to assure Your Excellency that He
has served with Zeal and Attention. I forgot to apologize to You
for letting Lieut. Colonel McDonald go to New York to Solicit
leave to go home. His business in Europe seemed pressing, and I
did not see any inconvenience iu the command's devolving upon
Major McArthur, who is an excellent Officer.

Lieut. Colonel Balfour has arrived, and I have great reason to
think that He will render very essential Services at tills jjlace.
It will be a great convenience to us if Your Excellency will
please to Authorize the Baymaster General to grant Money upon
the Warrant of the Commandant at Charlestown for the Subsist-
ence of the Garrison, &c, as I may probably be at a very consid-
erable distance. A Deputy Baymaster will, for the same reason,
be much wanted for the Troops in the Field.

As I have the strongest assurances that Your Excellency intended
that Lieut. Colonels Webster & Clarke should receive Fay & for-
age Money as Brigadier Generals, I shall take it upon me to give
it to them. It is absolutely necessary that Balfour should have it,
or he would be ruined by being Commandant of Charlestown. I
likewise think it highly proper that, as Lord Rawdon is acting
with <fe commanding all these Officers, He should be offered the
same allowance. I have appointed Lieut. Colonel Clarke to com-
mand in East Florida as well as Georgia, & He is gone with Mon-
crief to inspect the condition of St. Augustine.

I have already explained the measures I had taken for estab-
lishing a Government and securing this Country by Means of a
Militia. I have likewise paid as much attention as possible to
the Civil and Commercial matters. The principal objects of my
attention will appear in the five Proclamations which I have
Issued, which I have the honour of enclosing to Your Excellency.
I have the honour to be. Sir,

Your most obedient & most humble Servant,

CORNWALLIS.
His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, K. B., etc., &c, &c.

STATE RECORDS.

EARL CORXWALLIS TO LORD GEORGE GERMAIN.

Camden, So. Carolina, 20th Augt., 17S0.
(No. 1.)

Earl Cornwallis Reed. 9th Oct, 2 inclosures.

M y Loed :
Your Lordship will have been informed by Sir Henry
Clinton of every thing that passed in the Province of South
Carolina from the reduction of Charles town to the defeat of the
Corps under Colonel Buford by the great exertions & valour of
Lieut. Col. Tarleton.

Sir Henry soon afterwards embarked for New York, and
appointed me to the command of His Majesty's Forces in the
Southern Provinces. I was then at Camden, but the Corps with
me being totally destitute of Millitary Stores, Clothing, Rum,
Salt, & other articles necessary for Troops in the operations of the
Field, and Provisions of all kinds being deficient, almost approach-
ing to a Famine in North Carolina, it was impossible for me to
penetrate into that Province before the Harvest. I therefore
employed myself in fixing posts of Troops from the Pedee to the
Savannah rivers, to awe the disaffected and encourage the loyal
Inhabitants, And I took every measure in my Power to raise some
Provincial Corps, & to establish a Militia as well for the Defence
as for the internal Government of South Carolina. One Provin-
cial Corps, to consist of five hundred men, was put in Commission
to be raised between the Pedee and "Wateree, to be commanded by
Mr. Harrison with the rank of Major ; And another of the same
number was ordered to be raised in the district of Ninety-Six, to
be commanded by Mr. Cunningham, to whom, on account of his
active Loyalty for several years past, I gave the rank of Lieut.
Colonel ; And there appeared to be great reason to expect that
both these Corps would be soon compleated, as well as the first
South Carolina Regt., which was composed of Refugees who had
now returned to their native Country.

In the district of Ninety-Six, by far the most populous and
powerful of the Province, Lt. Col. Balfonr, by his great attention
& diligence, and by the active assistance of Majr. Ferguson, who
was appointed. Inspector General of the Militia of this Province

STATE EECOKDS.

by Sir Henry Clinton, bad formed seven Battalions of Militia, con-
sisting of above four thousand Men, and entirely composed of per-
sons well affected to the British Government, which were so regu-
lated that they could with ease Furnish fifteen hundred Men at a
short notice for the defence of the Frontier or any other home
Service. But I must take this opportunity of observing that this
Militia can be of little use for distant Military operations, as they
will not stir without an Horse, & on that account Your Lordship
will easily conceive the impossibility of keeping a number of them
together without destroying the Country. Many Battalions were
likewise formed by myself & other Officers on the very extensive
line from Broad Kiver to Cheraws, but they were in general
either weak or not much to be relied on for their fidelity. In
order to protect the raising of Harrison's Corps & to awe a large
tract of disaffected Country between the Pedee & Black Biver, I
posted Major McArthur with the 71st Kegt. & a troop of Dragoons
at Cheraw Hill on the Pedee, where his detachment was plenti-
fully supplied by the Country, with Provisions of all kinds. Other
small Posts were likewise established in the front & on the left
of Camden, where the people were known to be ill disposed, And
the Main body of the Corps was posted at Camden, which, for this
Conntry, is reckoned a tolerably healthy place, and where the
Troops could most conveniently subsist & receive the necessary
supplies of various kinds from Charlestown. I likewise had set-
tled good channels of Correspondence with our friends in North
Carolina,and had given them positive directions to attend to their
harvests, & to remain quiet untill I could inarch to their relief.
In this business I was greatly assisted by Governor Martin, from
whose abilities & zeal for the service I have on many occasions
derived great advantages, And which I must beg that your Lord-
ship will please to represent in the strongest terms to his Majesty.

Having made the above arrangements, & everything wearing
the face of tranquillity and submission, I set out on the 21st of
June for Charlestown, leaving the command of the Troops on the
frontier to Lord Bawdon, who was, after Brigadier General
Paterson, the Commandant of Charlestown, the next Officer in
rank to me in the Province.

About this time, I heard that two thousand of the Maryland &
Delaware Continental Troops were entering North Carolina

STATE RECORDS. 265

under Major General Baron DeKalb, & that he meant to take
his quarters at Hilsborough. There was then in that Country a
Corps of three hundred Virginia Lt. Infantry under Col.
Porterfield, some Militia at Salisbury & Charlottetown under
Genls. Rutherford & Sumpter, & a large body of Militia at Cross
Creek under Genl. Caswell. As all these Corps were at a great
distance from us, and as I knew it to be impossible to march any
considerable body of Men across the Province of North Carolina
before tbe Harvest, I did not expect that our posts on the frontier
would be much disturbed for two months, And by that time I
hoped to be able to undertake offensive operations.

I had much business to do at Charlestown, in regulating the
Civil and Commercial Affairs ot the Town & Country, in
endeavouring to form a Militia in the lower districts, and in
forwarding the preparations for taking the Field at the time
intended. The business of the Country was paiticularly difficult,
for many parts of the lower districts are extremely rebellious, and
this Climate (except in Charlestown) is so bad within an hundred
miles of the Coast, from the end of June untill the middle of October,
that Troops could not be stationed among them during that
period without a certainty of their being rendered useless for some
time for Military service, if not entirely lost ; And our principal
Friends for the same reasons, were extremely unwilling to remain
in the Country during that period, to assist in forming the Militia
and establishing some kind of Government. However, under all
these difficulties the business was going on, when our tranquillity
was first disturbed by the accounts of a premature rising of pur
Friends in Tryon County, North Carolina, in the latter end of June,
who, having assembled without concert, plan, or proper leaders,
were, two days after, surprised and totally routed by the Son of
Genl. Rutherford. Many of them fled into this Province, where
their reports tended much to terrify our friends and encourage our
enemies. And about the same time, notwithstanding my
injunctions to the contrary, another body of Loyalists rose at the
forks of the Yadkin under Col. Bryan, (driven to it, as they said,
by the most barbarous persecution,) and after a long and difficult
march joined Major McArthur at the Cheraws to the amount of
upwards of 700 Men.

STATE RECORDS.

Hostilities now commenced in different parts of the frontier.
Genl. Sumpter, an active & daring man, assembled at Catawba
about a thousand Men, chiefly Refugees from South Carolina &
Georgia, and was constantly Menacing our small posts & putting
us under the necessity of calling out the Militia of Ninety Six.
He was joined by many disaffected persons who had been enrolled
in our Militia, but as there was no serious alarm I was very
unwilling to put the Troops in Motion before our preparations
were compleat, & during the intense heat of the summer.

Baron de Kalb moved early in July to Deep River, where he
was joined first by Genl. Caswell from Cross Creek, & about the
25th by General Gates, who took the command of the Army.
But as he was still above an hundred miles from Majr. McArthur,
which was the nearest post to him, Lord Rawdon did not think it
necessary to make any material alteration in the disposition of
the Troops. From this time untill the 20th of July many skir-
mishes happened on the frontiers of Ninety Six & towards Wax-
haw, but none of any material consequence. The Enemy had,
however, in the mean time filled this Province with their emis-
saries, and in all the Eastern part of it were planning a general
revolt, which our lenity had left but too much in their power.
The Cheraw Hill was *a post of great consequence, ite had the
Appearance of being healthy, but it proved so much the Contrary,
and sickness came on so rapidly, that in nine days at least two
thirds of the 71st Regt. were taken ill of Fevers & Agues, & ren-
dered unfit for service. About this time the enemy were known
to be in Motion, hut the rigour of their Government (Many of our
principal friends in N. Carolina being confined in Dungeons,
loaded with Irons, & several having been put to Death) had so
intimidated those on whose good will ifc ability to give the most
accurate intelligence we had the greatest reason to depend that
Lord Rawdon could obtain no certaimaceounts of them.

The Salvation of the 71st Regt., as well as every other consid-
eration, determined his Lordship to withdraw the post at Cheraw
Hill. This the active incendiaries of the enemy represented as
an act of fear, & so encouraged the disaffected & terrified the
wavering that the whole country between Pedee & Black River
openly avowed the Principles of Rebellion, and collecting in Par-
ties commenced acts of Hostility.

STATE RECORDS. 267

Onr Clieraw Militia, having seized & bound their field officers,
attack'd & took some boats on the Pedee in which Majr. McAr-
thur was sending near one hundred of his sick to Georgetown. I
was greatly alarmed for a small detachment which I had sent
under Majr. "YVemys to reduce the people of Georgetown to some
order, & for my water communication of the Santee, on which at
that time a large quantity of Rum, Salt, Arms & Military Stores
were moving in boats up to Camden.

At this time Genl. Sumpter, whose numbers were much aug-
mented by the present prospect of affairs, attack'd our Post at
Rocky Mount, but was repulsed by the steady & gallant defence
of Lt. Col. Turnbull & the small corps under his command. It
now appeared that General Gates was advancing with his whole
force from N. Carolina, and Lord Rawdon (whose Capacity & zeal
for the service I cannot too much commend) saw the necessity of
contracting his Posts & securing Camden, where we had all our
Stores & above 700 sick, but He could not immediately withdraw
his whole force to that place without a certainty of losing his com-
munication with Charlestown & exposing the Posts dependent on-
the Ninety-Six command to be surrounded & cut off. He
therefore continued Lt. Col. Turnbull at Rocky Mount, Reinforced
his post at Hanging Rock and placed himself with the principal
force at Robertson's, on the west branch of Linche's Creek. The
Post at Hanging Rock was attack'd by Genl. Sumner, a few days
after his repulse from Rocky Mount, & very nearly carried. The
bravery of Capt. McCullough, since dead of his wounds, & of the
Infantry of the Legion preserved it. Lord Rawdon waited for Genl.
Gates at Robertson's with the 23d, 23d, 71st & volunteers of Ire-
land, who came up but did not think proper to attack him. In
the mean time His Lordship performed the arduous task of remov-
ing the sick of the 71st regt. to Camden. Genl. Gates shewing no
disposition to attack the Corps at Robertson's, Lord Rawdon wisely
apprehending that his intention might be either to reinforce Sump-
ter & make a more vigorous attack on the posts at Rocky Mount
or Hanging Rock, or by getting round his right destroy his stores
& take his sick at Camden, retired from Robertson's to that place,
where He was joined by the Corps which had been before moved
from Hanging Rock to Rugeley's Mill, & directed Lt. Col. Turn-

STATE EECOEDS.

bull to quit Eocky Mount, and either come down the west side of
the Wateree to Camden or fall back on the Militia Posts com-
manded by Majr. Ferguson on Broad Eiver.

All these incidents & movements on both sides were regularly
reported to me while at Charlestown by Lord Eawdon, And I
shall have the honor of informing Your Lordship of the conse-
quences in my next Dispatch, which will be written to-morrow.

I have the honor to be, with great respect,

Your Lordship's Most Obedient & Most Humble Servant,

COENWALLIS-

Eht. Honble. Lord George Germain, &c, &c, &c.

EARL CORNWALLIS TO LORD GEORGE GERMAIN.
Eecd. 9th October, 4 Inclosures. Entd.

Camden, So. Carolina, August 21st, 1780.
No. 2.

My Lord :

It is with great pleasure that I communicate to Your Lord-
ship an Account of a Compleat Victory obtained on the 16th
Inst., by His Majesty's Troops under my command, over the
Eebel Southern Army, Commanded by General Gates.

In my Dispatch, No. 1, I had the honour to inform Your Lord-
ship that while at Charlestown I was regularly acquainted by
Lord Eawdon with every Material incident or Movement made by
the Enemy, or by the Troops under His Lordship's command. On
the 9th inst. two Expresses arrived with an account that Genl.
Gates was advancing towards Lynche's Creek with his whole
Army, supposed to amount to 6,000 men, exclusive of a Detach-
.ment of 1,000 Men under Genl. Sumpter, who, after having in
vain attempted to force the Posts at Eocky Mount & Hanging
Eock, was believed to be at that time trying to get round the left
of our position, to cut off our communication with the Congarees
.& Charlestown ; That the disaffected Country between Pedee &

STATE RECORDS.

Black River had actually revolted, and that Lord Rawdon was
contracting his Posts and preparing to assemble his force at
Camden.

In consequence of this information, after finishing some impor-
tant points of business at Charlestown, I set out on the evening of
the 10th, and arrived at Camden on the night between the 13th &
14th, and there found Lord Rawdon with our whole force, except
Lt. Col. TurnbulPs small detachment, which fell back from Rocky
Mount to Major Ferguson's posts of the Militia of Ninety Six on
Little River.

I had now my option to make, either to retire or attack the
Enemy, for the position at Camden was a bad one to be attack'd
in, and by Genl. Sumpter's advancing down the Wateree my
supplies must have failed me in a few days.

I saw no difficulty in making good my retreat to Charlestown
with the Troops that were able to inarch, but in taking that
resolution I must have not only left near 800 sick and a great
quantity of Stores at that place, but I clearly saw the loss of the
whole Province, except Charlestown, and of all Georgia, except
Savannah, as immediate consequences; besides forfeiting all
pretensions to future confidence from our friends in this part of
America.

On the other hand, there was no doubt of the Rebel Army
being well appointed, & of its number being upwards of Five
thousand Men, exclusive of Genl. Sumpter's detachment, and of a
Corps of Virginia Militia of 12 or 1,500 men, either actually
joined or expected to join the main body every hour ; And my
owi) Corps, which never was numerous, was now reduced by sick-
ness & other casualties to about 1,400 fighting men of Regulars
& Provincials, with 4 or 500 Militia & N. Carolina Refugees.

However, the greatest part of the troops being perfectly good,
and having left Charlestown sufficiently garrisoned & provided
for a siege, and seeing little to lose by a defeat, & much to gain by
a Victory, I resolved to take the first good opportunity to Attack
the Rebel Army.

Accordingly I took great pains to procure good information of
their movements & position, and I learned that they had encamped,
after marching from Hanging Rock, at Col. Rugeley's, about 12
miles from hence, on the afternoon of the 14th.

270 STATE RECORDS.

After consulting some intelligent people well acquainted with
the ground, I determined to march at ten o'clock on the night of
the 15th, & to Attack at day break, pointing my principal force
against their Continentals, who,from good Intelligence, I knew to
be badly posted close to Col. Rugeley's House. Late in the even-
ing I received information that theYirginians had joined that day;
however, that having been expected, Idid not alter my Plan, but
marched at the hour appointed, leaving the defence of Camden to
some Provincials, Militia & Convalescents and a detachment of
the 63d regt. which, by being mounted on horses which they had
pressed on the road, it was hoped would arrive in the course of the
night.

I had proceeded nine miles, when, about half an hour past two
in the Morning, my advanced guard fell in with the enemy. By
the weight of the lire I was convinced that they were in consider-
able force, & was soon assured by some deserters and prisoners
that it was the whole Rebel Army on its march to attack us
at Camden. I immediately halted 6z formed, & the enemy doing
the same, the firing soon ceased.

Confiding in the disciplined, Courage of His Majesty's Troops,
and well apprized by several intelligent Inhabitants that the
ground on which both Armies stood, being narrowed by swamps
on the right & left, was extremely favourable for my numbers I
did not chuse to hazard the great stake for which I was going to
fight to the uncertainty & confusion to which an action in the
dark is so particularly liable, but having taken measures that the
Enemy should not have it in their Power to avoid an engagement
on that ground, I resolved to defer the attack 'till day. xltthe
Dawn I made my last disposition, and formed the Troops in the
folowing order: The division of the right consisting of a small
Corps of Lt. Infantry, the 23d ifc 33d Regts. under the command of
Lt. Col. Webster; The division of the left consisting of the Vol-
unteers of Ireland, Infantry of the Legion, & part of Lt. Col.
Hamilton's North Carolina Regt. under the command of Lord
Rawdon, with two six & two three pounders, which were com-
manded by Lieut. McLeod. The 71st Regt., with two six pound-
ers, was formed as a reserve, one Battalion in the rear of the divis-
ion of the right, the other of that of the left, And the Cavalry of
the Legion in the rear, & (the country being woody) close to the

STATE RECORDS. 271

71st regt, with orders to seize any opportunity that might offer to
break the Enemy's line, & to be ready to protect our own in case
any Corps should meet with a Check.

This disposition was just made when I perceived that the Enemy,
having likewise persisted in their resolution to tight, were formed
in two lines opposite ifc near to us, and observing a movement on
their left, which I supposed to be with an intention to make some
alteration in their order, I directed Lt. Col. Webster to begin the
attack, which was done with great vigour, and in a few Minutes
the action was general along the whole front. It was at this time
a dead calm, with a little haziness in the Air, which, preventing the
smoke from rising, occasioned so thick a darkness that it was diffi-
cult to see the effect of a very heavy & well-supported fire on both
sides. Our line continued to advance in good order, and with the
cool intrepidity of experienced British Soldiers, keeping up a con-
stant fire, or making use of Bayonets as opportunity offered, and
after an obstinate resistance during three quarters of an hour threw
the enemy into total Confusion & forced them to give way in all
quarters. At this instant I ordered the Cavalry to compleat the
Route, which was performed with their usual promptitude & gal-
lantry, and after doing great execution on the Field of Battle they
continued the pursuit to hanging Rock, 22 miles from this place,
where the action happened, During which many of the enemy
were slain, a number of prisoners, near 150 waggons, (in one of
which was a brass Cannon, the carriage of which had been damaged
in the skirmish of the night) a considerable quantity of military
Stores, and all the baggage ite Camp Equipage of the Rebel Army
fell into our hands.

The loss of the Enemy was very considerable, A number of Col-
ours and Seven pieces of orass Canon (being all their artillery that
were in the Action) with all their Ammunition waggons, were
taken. Between eight <k nine hundred were killed, among that
number Brigr. Genl. Gregory, and about one thousand Prisoners,
many of whom wounded, of which number were Majr. Genl. Baron
de Kalb, since dead, and Brigr. Genl. Rutherford.

I have the honour to inclose a Return of Killed & wounded on
our side. The loss of so many brave men is much to be lamented,
but the number is Moderate in proportion to so great an advan-
tage.

272 STATE RECORDS.

The behaviour of His Majesty's troops in general was beyond all
praise ; It did honour to themselves & to their Country. I was
particularly indebted to Col. Lord Rawdon and to Lt. Col. Web-
ster for the distinguished courage and ability with which they con-
ducted their respective divisions; and the Capacity and Vigour of
Lt. Col. Tarleton at the head of the Cavalry deserve my highest
commendations. Lieut. McLeod exerted himself greatly in the con-
duct of oui Artillery. My Aid de Camp, Capt. Ross, & Lieut.
Haldane of the Engineers, who acted in that Capacity, rendered
me most essential Service, and the public Officers, Major of Brigade
England, who acted as Deputy Adjutant General, & the Majors
of Brigade, Manley & Doyle, shewed the most active and zealous
attention to their duty ; Governor Martin became again a Military
Man, & behaved with the spirit of a young Volunteer.

The fatigue of the Troops rendered them incapable of further
exertions on the Day of the Action ; But as I saw the importance
of Destroying or Dispersing, if possible, the Corps under General
Sumpter, as it might prove a foundation for assembling the routed
Army, On the Morning of the 17th I detached Lt. Col. Tarleton
with the* Legion Cavalry & Infantry & the Corps of Light Infantry,
making in all about 350 men, with orders to attack him wherever
He could find him, And at the same time I sent orders to Lt. Col.
Turnbull & Major Ferguson, at that time on Little river, to put
their Corps in motion immediately, and on their side to pursue &
endeavour to attack Genl. Sumpter. Lt. Col. Tarleton executed
this service with his usual activity & military address. He procured
good information of Snmpter's movements, and by forced and con-
cealed marches came up with & surprized him in the middle of the
day on the 18th near the Catawba Fords. He totally destroyed or
dispersed his detachment, consisting then of 700 men, killing 150
on the Spot & taking two pieces of Brass Canon & 300 Prisoners,
& 44 waggons. He likewise retook 100 of our men, who had fallen
into their hands, partly at the action at Hanging Rock, & partly
in escorting some waggons from Congarees to Camden, & He
released 150 of our Militia Men or friendly Country people who
had been seized by the Rebels. Capt. Campbell who commanded
the light Infantry, a very promising Officer, was unfortunately
killed in this affair; our loss otherwise was trifling. This action
is too brilliant to need any comment of mine, & will, I have no

STATE RECORDS. 273

doubt, highly recommend Lt. Col. Tarleton to His Majesty's
Favour. The Rebel Forces being at present dispersed, the • inter-
nal commotions & insurrections in the Province will now subside.
But I shall give directions to inflict exemplary punishment on
some of the most guilty, in hopes to deter others in future from
sporting with allegiance, with Oaths, & with the lenity and gener-
osity of the British Government.

On the morning of the 17th I dispatched proper people into
North Carolina with directions to our friends there to take arms &
assemble immediately, & to seize the most Violent People and all
military Stores & magazines belonging to the Rebels, & to inter-
cept all stragglers from the routed Army ; And I have promised
to march without loss of time to their support. Some necessary
supplies for the Army are now on their way from Charlestown,
and I hope that their arrival will enable me to Move in a few
days.

My Aid de Camp, Capt. Ross, will have the honour of deliver-
ing this Dispatch to Your Lordship, & will be able to give You
the fullest account of the State of the Army & the country. He
is a very deserving Officer, and I take the liberty of recommending
him to your Lordship's favour and patronage.

I have the honor to be, with great respect,
Your Lordship's Most Obedient & Most. Humble Servant,

CORNWALLIS.
Rht. Honble. Lord George Germain, &c, &c, &c.

EARL CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Camden, August 23d, 1780.
Sir:
Your Excellency will have, in all probability, received my
letters of the 6th and 10th by Captain Lutwidge. The oppor-
tunity was so safe, & I am at present so hurried with business,
15—18

274 STATE RECORDS.

with everybody belonging to me Sick, that I shall omit sending
the Duplicates until another opportunity.

I left Charlestown on the Evening of the 10th & arrived
here in the night of the 13th, having suffered the most anxious
suspense on the road, where I met frequently the most alarm-
ing reports and had the greatest reason to apprehend that if our
Affairs did not speedily take a more favourable turn the greatest
part of the inhabitants between Camden & Charles Town would
appear in Arms against us.

As I thought it of the greatest consequence to Plis Majesty's
Service that the account of the important event of the 16th
should be communicated with all possible expedition to the Sec-
retary of State, and as your Excellency told me in a conversation
at Williams' House, that if I fought a battle and took Cannon I
should write directly to England, I have on this occasion dispatched
my Aid-de-Camp, Captain Ross, with the letters to Lord George
Germain, of which I have the honour to enclose to you the
copies.

I must beg leave to recommend in the strongest manner to you
the brave Troops who fought with me on that day. Their behav-
iour was indeed above all praise & deserves every encouragement —
Poor Major Mecan died a few days before the Action, & as I can-
not possibly dispense with Lt. Col. Balfour's remaining at Charles-
town, where he is of infinite use, I must particularly request that
you will please to appoint some active, good Officer to the Majority
of the 23d Regiment.

I have not yet heard any accounts from No. Carolina, but I hope
that our friends will immediately take Arms, as I have directed
them to do. The diversion in the Chesapeak will be of the
utmost importance. The troops here have gained reputation, but
they have lost numbers, and there can be no doubt that the
enemy will use every effort to repel an attack, which, if successful,
must end in their losing all the Southern Colonies.

I have likewise to observe that, if a general Exchange should
take place, the Enemy's prisoners should, in my opinion, be deliv-
ered at the same place as ours are sent in. The Rebels now con-
fined at Charlestown are almost all Continentals, and of the old
Country, and would, if released from hence, soon form a Corps on
the frontiers of Virginia, far superior in number to the troops

STATE RECORDS. 275

under my command ; & I do not think, if the Prisoners were all
removed, that I could draw any considerable reinforcement from
the Garrison of Charlestown, considering the great distance we
shall be removed from thence.

It is difficult to form a plan of operations which must depend
so much on circumstances, but it at present appears to me that I
should endeavor to get, as soon as possible, to Hillsborough, &
there assemble and try to arrange the friends who are inclined
to arm in our favour, and endeavor to form a very large Mag-
azine for the Winter of Flour & Meal from the Country, and
of Rum, Salt, &c. from Cross Creek, which 1 understand to be
about eighty miles' carriage. But all this will depend on the
operations which your Excellency may think proper to pursue in
the Chesapeak, which appears to me, next to the Security of New
York, to be one of the most important objects of the War. I can
only repeat what I have often had the honour of saying to you
that, wherever you may think my presence can be most conducive
to His Majesty's Service, thither I am at all times ready and will-
ing to go.

When I found that Genl. Gates was advancing towards Camden,
I sent orders to the Commanding Officer at Ninety-Six to push
parties of Militia, supported by Provincials, in the rear of his
right, and endeavor to harrass his convoys, and be ready to take
advantage of any success that we might have against him. I have
since received a report that Lieut. Col. Innes, in attempting this
Service, fell in on the 19th with a party of Rebels, when he was
deserted by the Militia & himself wounded in the neck, and about
Fifty Officers A men of his Provincials Killed, Wounded or taken.
The rebels who were pursuing him heard of our Successes against
Gates & Sumpter, and went off with great precipitation. Major
Wemys performed his march from George Town without loss or
difficulty, and is now in the neighborhood of this place.

I am sorry to say that I fear Major Harrison will totally fail in
his attempts to raise a Corps.

Our sickness is great, and truly alarming. The Officers are
particularly affected ; Doctor Haves and almost all the Hospital

276 STATE RECORDS.

Surgeons are laid up. Every person of my family, and every Pub-
lic Officer of the Army, is now incapable of doing his duty.
I have the honor to be, Sir,

Your most Obedient & most humble servant,

CORNWALLIS.
His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, &c, &c, &c.

EARL CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Received Septr. 23rd, No. 3. In Sir Henry Clinton's No. 107.

Camden, 29th August, 1780.
Sir:

I send Duplicates of mj' Letters of the 23rd and those of the
6th & 10th of this Month. Nothing very material has occurred
since the 23d. We receive the strongest Professions of Friend-
ship from North Carolina. Our Friends, however, do not seem
inclined to rise until they see our Army in Motion. The Severity
of the Rebel Government has so terrified & totally subdued the
Minds of the People that it is very difficult to rouze them to any
Exertions. The taking that violent and cruel Incendiary,
Genl. Rutherford, has been a lucky Circumstance, but the indefat-
igable Sumpter is again in the Field, & is beating up for Recruits
with the greatest Assiduity.

Major Wemyss is going with a detachment of the 63d
Regiment mounted, some Refugees, Provincials & Militia, to
disarm in the most rigid Manner the Country between Santee &
Pedee, and to punish severely all those who submitted or
pretended to live peaceably under His Majesty's Government
since the Reduction of Charlestown, and have joined in this
second Revolt, And I ordered him to hang up all those Militia
Men who were concerned in seizing their Officers and capturing
the Sick of the 71st Regiment. I have myself ordered several
Militia Men to be executed, who had voluntarily enrolled them-
selves and borne Arms with us, and afterwards revolted to the
Enemy.

STATE RECORDS. 277

The Number of Prisoners was a great Inconvenience to us here,
in a'small Village so crowded and so sickly. I was afraid that
the close place in which we were obliged to confine them might
produce some pestilential Fever during the excessive hot Weather.
I therefore sent them off as early as possible, by Divisions of 150
each, under the Escort of 38 Men, about two thirds of which were
composed of the 63d & Prince of Wales' Regiments, the rest
Militia. In order to cover their March, altho' I did not appre-
hend much danger, I posted Major Wemyss, with a part of the
63d, at the high Hills of Santee, and I sent Lieut. Colonel Tarleton,
with a Detachment of the Legion, & Lieut. Colonel Hamilton's
Corps & some Militia to Ratcliffe's Bridge on Linche's Creek,
which I thought would effectually awe the lower Country. The
Disaffection, however, of the Country East of Santee is so great
that the Account of our Victory could not penetrate into it, any
person daring to speak of it being threatened with instant Death.
And so great was the Ignorance in which these People were kept
that on the Night of the 23d a Party of about 200 mounted Militia
under Colonel Marion went to Murray's Ferry, where they passed
some Men in Canoes, drove away our Militia Guard and destroyed
the Ferry Boats to prevent our making our Escape from General
Gates over the Santee. On the 24th they were proceeding to do
the same at Nelson's Ferry, when they heard of the March of the
first Division of Prisoners, and that they were to halt that Night
at Sumpter's House, (which halting place was not very well
chosen by the Qr. Mr. General). The Ensign of the Militia of
the Escort contrived to get over to the Enemy, and conducted
them to the Attack, the Consequence of which was that our
Escort was taken and the Prisoners released. By this time some
Patroles of Lieut. Colonel Tarleton's to Kingstree Bridge on Black
River had spreed the Alarm in their Rear, and being perfectly
convinced by the Prisoners of General Gates's total Defeat, they
retired with great Precipitation to George Town. The greatest
Part of the Escort escaped from them, and above eighty of the
Prisoners, all Continentals, either English or Irish, declared their
Determination to proceed to Charlestown. 1 am assured that not
more than twelve of the Escort and forty of the Prisoners were
carried off by the Enemy. I believe that Capt. Roberts, of the

278 STATE RECORDS.

63d, who commanded the Escort, did his Duty perfectly well, &
was not to blame in any respect.

I hope to be able to move my first Division in eight or nine
days into North Carolina by Charlotte-town & Salisbury ; the
Second will follow in about ten days after, with convalescents &
Stores. I shall leave the New York Volunteers and Innes's
Corps to take Care of this Place untill the Sick & Stores can be
removed. Our Sickness at present is rather at a Stand, the
Recoveries nearly keeping Pace with the falling down. I dread the
Convalescents not being able to march ; but it is very tempting to
try it, as a move of forty or fifty Miles would put us in a much
better Climate.

Ferguson is to move into Tryon County with some Militia,
whom he says He is sure he can depend upon for doing their
Duty and fighting well ; but I am sorry to say that his own
Experience, as well as that of every other Officer, is totally anainst
him.

. I am very anxious to hear again from the Northward, as our
Accounts of the French Fleet were very imperfect.

I most sincerely hope that nothing can happen to prevent your
Excellency's intended Diversion in the Chesajseak. If unfortu-
nately any unforeseen Cause should make it impossible, I should
hope that you will see the absolute Necessity of adding some
Force to the Carolinas.

I have the honor to be,

Your most obedient & Most humble Servant,

CORNAVALLIS.
His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, K. B.

EARL CORXWALLIS To LORD GEoKGE GERMAIN.

Camp at Waxhaw, September 19th, 1780.
My Lord :
I had the honor to inform Your Lordship, in my letter of the 21st
of August, that I had dispatched proper people into North Caro-
lina to exhort our friends in that Province to take Arms, to seize

STATE RECORDS. 279

Military Stores and Magazines of the Enemy, and to intercept all
stragglers of the routed Army.

Some parties of our friends, who had embodied themselves near
the Pedee, disarmed several of the Enemy's Stragglers; but the
leading persons of the Loyalists were so undecided in their Coun-
cils that they lost the critical time of availing themselves of our
Success, and even suffered General Gates to pass to Hillsborough
with a Guard of six Men only. They continue, however, to give
me the strongest assurances of support when His Majesty's Troops
shall have penetrated into the interior parts of the Province. Tbe
patience and fortitude with which they endure the most cruel
torments, and suffer the most violent oppressions that a Country
ever laboured under, convince me that they are sincere, at least as
far as their affection to the Cause of Great Britain.

The number of prisoners taken in the Actions of the 16th & 18th
of last Month occasioned great inconvenience to us in the small
villiage of Camden, which was so crowded and so sickly I was
afraid that the close place in which we were obliged to confine
them might produce some pestilential fever during the excessive
hot weather. I therefore sent them off to Charlestown as early as
possible, by divisions of One hundred & fifty each, under the
escort of thirty-eight men, about two thirds of which were com-
posed of the 63d and Prince of Wales's Regiments, and the rest
Militia. In order to cover their March, although I did not appre-
hend much clanger, I posted Major Wemyss, with about One hundred
men of the 63d Regiment, on the high hills of Santee, and I sent
Lt. Col. Tarleton with a detachment of the legion, and Lt. Col.
Hamilton's Corps and some Militia to Ratcliffe's bridge, on Linche's
Creek, which I thought would effectually awe all tbe lower Coun-
try. The disaffection, however, in the Country East of Santee, is
so great that the Account of our Victory could not penetrate into
it, any person daring to speak of it being threatened with instant
death ; and so great was the ignorance in which these people were
kept that, on the night of the 23d of August, a party of about Two
hundred of the Inhabitants, in the neighborhood of Black River,
under the command of Col. Marion, went to Murray's ferry, where
they passed some Men in Canoes, drove away our Militia guard,
who Med at the first shot, and destroyed the ferry boats, to prevent

280 STATE RECORDS.

our making our escape from General Gates over the Santee. On
the 24th they were proceeding to do the same at Nelson's ferry,
when they- heard of the march of the first division of Prisoners, and
they were to halt that night at Sumpter's house, about six miles
East of the ferry. The Ensign of ihe Militia of the escort con-
trived to get over to the enemy, and conducted them to the attack
of Sumptec's house, the consequence of which was that our Escort
was taken and the Prisoner's released. By this time some Patroles
of Lt. Col. Tarleton's to Kingstree bridge, on Black River, had
spread the alarm in that Country ; and the Enemy, being perfectly
convinced by the Prisoners of General Gates's total defeat,
retired with great precipitation to Georgetown. Great part of the
Escort escaped from them, and above eighty of the Prisoners, all
Continentals, either English or Irish, declared their determination
to proceed to Charles-town.

I am sorry to inform Your Lordship that the Troops under my
command, as well Officers as Men, have continued very sickly ever
since the Action. In hopes that the change of air might be
useful, I moved from Camden on the 7th of this Month with the
23d, 33d & Volunteers of Ireland, and encamped at Waxhaw
Creek. Lieut. Col. Tarleton marched the next day with the Light
Troops up the West side of the Catawba River. The 71st Regi-
ment, who are beginning a little to recover, are to join me in a
few days. Major Wemyss is gone with part of the 63d Regiment,
and of Lt. Col. Hamilton's Corps, to endeavor to form a Militia in
the dtstrict of Cheraws on whose fidelity we may place some de-
pendence, and to punish those Traitors who, after voluntarily
engaging in our Militia, deserted to the enemy. Detachments are
likewise gone for the same purpose to Georgetown.

I must assure Your Lordship that His Majesty's Service has
derived the greatest advantages from the ability and great exer-
tion of Lt. Col. Balfour in the very important post of Command-
ant of Charlestown, where he has put everything in such perfect
Order, and has formed so respectable a Militia, that with the con-
currence of Majr. Moncrief, the Chief Engineer, he is enabled to
spare another Battalion for the field, notwithstanding the increase
of Prisoners, in consequence of which the 7th Regiment is now on
its march to join me.

By the Capitulation of Charlestown, the Town Militia were

STATE RECORDS. 281

allowed to remain on parole, and their property in Town was to
be secured to them. About twenty or thirty of them, who had
been the Ringleaders of Rebellion in this Province, held constant
meetings, from which they carried on a correspondence with the
enemy and with all the disaffected parts of the Province, and
received, In order to propagate it throughout the Town and Coun-
try adjacent, General Gates' Proclamation. They advanced, in
the most publick and insolent manner, the grossest falsehoods,
tending to encourage the disaffected and to terrify the well dis-
posed Inhabitants, and seemed to imagine that their Parole was
intended only to protect them, without laying them under any
restraint whatever. It was impossible, with safety to the Town
full of Rebel Prisoners, to suffer them to preserve in these dan-
gerous practices. I therefore ordered them to.be seized and trans-
ported with their Baggage to St. Augustine, where they will
remain on parol, without a possibility of hurting the Interests of
Great Britain. I am aware that this proceeding may raise a
clamour amongst the enemies of my Country, but I am fully con-
vinced that it was as Just as it was absolutely necessay.

I transmit to Your Lordship a Copy of a Proclamation which I
thought myself under the necessity of issuing relative to the
Sequestration of Rebel Property. The severe mortification which
tt must occasion to His Majesty's Loyal Subjects on this Conti-
nent to see their Estates Confiscated and themselves and their
families reduced to beggary, whilst their inhuman persecutors,
who have brought ruin and destruction on them, are suffered to
persist openly in the avowal of Rebellion, and to continue to enjoy,
by permission of the British Government, the full possession of
their property, renders this measure in my opinion absolutely indis-
pensable ; and as it can effect no future plan, and only appropri-
ates those funds to the present use of Government which would
otherwise be employed against it, I Hatter myself that it will meet
with His Majesty's approbation.

The great sickness of the Army, the intense heat, and the neces-
sity of totally subduing the Rebel Country between the Santee
and Pedee, have detained me longer than I would have wished on
the frontiers of this Province. I am likewise anxious to hear
from New York, from whence I have no Accounts since the 15th

282 STATE RECORDS.

of July. I hope, however, that nothing can prevent my entering
North Carolina before the end of this Month.
I have the honour to be,

Your Lordship's most Obedient & most humble Servant,

CORNWALLIS.
Right Honorable Lord George Germain, &c, &c, &c,

EARL CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Camp at Waxhaw, September 22, 1780.
(Extract.)

If nothing material happens to obstruct my plan of operations, I
mean, as soon as Lieutenant-colonel Tarleton can be removed, to
proceed with the twenty-third, thirty-third, volunteers of Ireland,
and Legion to Charlotte-town, and leave the seventy-first here
until the sick can be brought on to us. I then mean to take some
redoubts, and to establish a fixed post at that place, and give the
command of it to Major Wemys, whose regiment is so totally
demolished by sickness that it will not be fit for actual service for
some months. To that place I shall bring up all the sick from
Camden who have any chance of being servicable before Christ-
mas, and trust to opportunities for their joining the army.

The post at Charlotte-town will be a great security to all this
frontier of South-Carolina, which, even if we were possessed of the
greatest part of North Carolina, would be liable to be infested by
parties who have retired with their effects over the mountains,
and mean to take every opportunity of carrying on a predatory
war ; and it will, I hope, prevent insurrections in this country,
which is very disaffected. I then think of moving on my principal
force to Salisbury, which will open this country sufficiently for us
to see what assistance we may really expect from our friends in
North Carolina, and will give us a free communication with the
Highlanders, on whom my greatest dependence is placed.

STATE RECORDS. 283

INSTRUCTIONS To THE HON. II A.I Oil GENERAL LESLIE.

Head Quarters, New \

York, October 10, 1780. J
Sir:
You will be pleased to proceed with tbe troops embarked under
your command to Chesapeak Bay ; and upon your arrival at that
place you will pursue such measures as you shall judge most likely
to answer the purpose of this expedition, the principal object of
which is to make a diversion in favour of Lieutenant-general Earl
Cornwallis, who, by the time you arrive there, will probably be act-
ing in the back parts of North Carolina. The information you
shall procure on the spot, after your arrival at your destined port,
will point out to you the properest method of accomplishing this ;
But from that which I have received here, I should judge it best
to proceed up James River as high as possible, in order to seize
or destroy any magazines the enemy may have at Petersburg,
Richmond, or any of the places adjacent ; and, finally, to establish
a post on Elizabeth River. But this, as well as the direction of
every other operation, is submitted to Earl Cornwallis, with whom
you are as soon as possible to- communicate, and afterwards to
follow all such orders and directions as you shall from time to
time receive from his Lordship.

H. CLINTON.

LORD RAWDON TO .MAJOR GENERAL LESLIE.

Camp, near the Indian Lands,
West of the Catawba River,
South Carolina, Oct. 2i, 1780.
Sir:
Lord Cornwallis not being sufficiently recovered from a severe
fever which lately attacked him to be able to write to you, his
Lordship has desired that I should have the honour of communi-
cating with you the subject of the present service. The Com-
mander-in-Chief has transmitted to Lord Cornwallis a copy of the
instructions under which you are to act. At the time when

284 STATE RECORDS.

Petersburg was suggested as an adviseable point for a diversion
which might co-operate with our intended efforts for the reduction
of North Carolina, it was imagined that the tranquillity of South
Carolina was assured ; and the repeated assurances which were
sent to us by the Loyalists in North Carolina gave us reason to
hope that their number and their zeal would not only facilitate
the restoration of his Majesty's government in that province but
might also supply a force for more extensive operations. Events
unfortunately have not answered to these flattering promises.
The appearance of General Gates' army unveiled to us a fund of
disaffection in this province of which we could have formed no
idea; and even the dispersion of that force did not extinguish the
ferment which the hope of its support had raised. This hour the
majority of the inhabitants of that tract between the Pedee and
the Santee are in arms against us ; and when we last heard from
Charles-town they were in possession of George-town, from which
they had dislodged our militia.

It was hoped that the rising which was expected of our friends
in North Carolina might awe that district into quiet ; therefore,
after giving them a little chastisement by making the seventh
regiment take that route in its way to the army, Lord Carnwallis
advanced to Charlotteburg.

Major Ferguson, with about eight hundred militia collected
from the neighborhood of Ninety-Six, had previously marched
into Tryon county to protect our friends, who were supposed to
be numerous there, and it was intended that he should cross
the Catawba river and endeavor to preserve tranquillity in the
rear of the army. A numerous army now appeared on the
frontiers, drawn from Nolachucki and other settlements beyond
the mountains, whose very names had been unknown to us. A
body of these, joined by the inhabitants of the ceded lands in
Georgia, made a sudden and violent attack upon Augusta. The
post was gallantly defended by Lieutenant Colonel Brown until
he was relieved by the activity of Lieutenant Colonel Cruger ;
but Major Ferguson, by endeavoring to intercept the enemy in
their retreat, unfortunately gave time for fresh bodies of men
to pass the mountains and to unite into a. corpse far superior to
that which he commanded. They came up with him, and after

STATE RECORDS. 285

a sharp action entirely defeated him. Ferguson was killed, and all
his party either slain or taken.

By the enemy's having secured all the passes on the Catawba,
Lord Cornwallis (who was waiting at Charlotteburg for a convoy
of stores) received but confused accounts of the affair for some
time, but at length the truth reached him, and the delay, equally
with the precautions the enemy had taken to keep their victory
from his knowledge, gave Lord Cornwallis great reason to fear for
the safety of Ninety-Six. To secure that district was indispensable
for the security of the rest of the province, and Lord Cornwallis
saw no means of affecting it but by passing the Catawba river
with his army, for it was so weakened by sickness that it could not
bear detachment.

After much fatigue on the march, occasioned by violent rains,
we passed the river three days ago. We then reoeived the first
intelligence respecting the different posts in this province which
had reached us for near three weeks, every express from Camden
having been waylaid and some of them murdered by the inhab-
itants. Ninety-Six is safe, the corps which defeated Ferguson
having, in consequence of our movement, crossed the Catawba and
joined Smallwood on the .Yadkin.

In our present position we have received the first intimation of
the expedition under your command. From the circumstances
which I have detailed we fear that we are too far asunder to ren-
der your co-operation very effectual. No force has presented
itself to us whose operation could have been thought serious
against this army ; but then we have little hopes of bringing the
affair to the issue of an action. The enemy are mostly mounted
militia, not to be overtaken by our infantry, nor to be safely pur
sued in this strong country by our cavalry. Our fear is that
instead of meeting us, they will slip by us into this province
were we to proceed far from it, and might again stimulate the dis
affected to serious insurrection. This apprehension you will judge
Sir, must greatly circumscribe our efforts. Indeed, Lord Corn
wallis cannot hope that he shall be able to undertake anything
upon such a scale as either to aid you or to benefit from you in
our present situation. The Commander-in-Chief has signified to
Lord Cornwallis that his Lordship is at liberty to give you any
direction for further co-operation which may appear to him expe-

286 STATE RECORDS.

client, But his Excellency has complied so very fully and com-
pletely with Lord Cornwallis's request, by sending so powerful a
force to make a diversion in the Chespeake, that his Lordship
fears he should require too much were he to draw you into the
immediate service of this district. His Lordship is likewise deli-
cate on this point because he does not know how far, by drawing
you from the Chespeake, he might interfere with any other pur-
poses to which the Commander-in-Chief may have destined your
troops. Under these circumstances Lord Cordwallis thinks him-
self obliged to leave you at liberty to pursue whatever measures
may appear to your judgment best for his Majesty's service and
most consonant with the wishes of the Commander-in-Chief. No
time is specified to Lord Cornwallis as the limitation of your stay
to the southward. Should your knowledge of Sir Henry Clinton's
desires prompt you to make a trial upon North Carolina, Cape
Fear river appears to be the only part where your efforts are at
present likely to be effectual. A descent there would be the
surest means of joining and arming the friends of government,
as well as of co-operating with this army.

This, therefore, would naturally be the point to which Lord
Cornwallis would bring you, did he conceive himself at liberty
so absolutely to dispose of you. It must be remarked however,
that there are two difficulties to this plan. The first is that the
country from Cape Fear to Cross Creek (the Highland settle-
ment) produces so little it would be requisite, in penetrating
through it, to carry your provisions with you. The second is
that no vessel larger than a frigate can pass the bar of Cape
Fear harbour. Whatever you decide, Lord Cornwallis desires
earnestly to hear from you as soon as possible.

'Tis uncertain yet what steps this army (if left to itself) must
pursue, but it will be ready at least to act vigorously in aid to
any plan which you may undertake. Lord Cornwallis begs that
you will inform the Commander-in-Chief of your circumstances,
and that you will have the goodness to mention how highly sensi-
ble his Lordship is to the very effectual manner in which his
Excellency has endeavoured to ease the operations of his army.
The measure must have been attended with the most favourable
consequences had not accidents which no foresight could expect
so greatly altered the complexion of our affairs in this province.

STATE RECORDS. 287

Lord Cornwallis desires me to add how much satisfaction he
should feel in having your assistance upon this service did it
promise more favourably for you. But should the intentions of
the Commander-in-Chief have left you at liberty to make the
attempt at Cape Fear, the success which would probably attend
that essential service would be doubly pleasing to Lord Cornwallis
from the opportunity it would most likely give him of congratu-
lating you in person. Allow me to add my hopes that the course
of the service would put it in my power to assure you personally
how much,

I have the Honour to be, &c.

RAW DON.

LORD RAWPoN TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

From Camp between Broad River

and the Catawba, October 29, 1780.
Sir:

Lord Cornwallis having been so reduced by a severe fever as
to be still unable to write, he has desired that I should have the
honour of addressing your Excellency in regard to our present
situation. But few days have past since Lord Cornwallis received
your Excellency's dispatch of the 20th of September. In conse-
quence of it, his Lordship directed that I should immediately
send a letter to meet Major General Leslie in the Chesapeake,
giving him the fullest information respecting our prospects and
the present temper of the country. I have the honour to inclose
a copy of that letter. Something remains to he said, in addition
to it, of a nature which Earl Cornwallis judges inexpedient to
unveil excepting to your Excellency.

For some time after the arrival of his Majesty's troops at Cam-
den repeated messages were sent to headquarters by the friends
of government in North Carolina, expressing their impatience to
rise and join the King's standard. The impossibility of subsisting
that additional force at Camden, and the accounts which they
themselves gave of the distressing scarcity of provisions in North
Carolina, obliged Lord Cornwallis to entreat them to remain quiet
till the new crop might enable us to join them. In the mean time

288 STATE RECORDS.

General Gates's army advanced. We were greatly surprised, and
no less grieved, that no information whatever of its movements was
conveyed to us by persons so deeply interested in the events as
the North Carolina Loyalists. Upon the 16th of August that army
was so entirely dispersed that it was clear no number of them
could for a considerable time be collected. Orders were therefore
dispatched to our friends, stating that the hour which had so
long pressed was arrived, and exhorting them to stand forth
immediately and prevent the reunion of the scattered enemy.
Instant support was in that case promised them. In the fullest
confidence that this event was to take place, Lord Cornwallis ven-
tured to press your Excellency for co-operation in the Chesapeake,
hoping that the assistance of the North Carolinians might eventu-
ally furnish a force for yet farther efforts. Not a single man, however
attempted to improve the favourable moment, or obeyed that sum-
mons for which they had before been so impatient. It was hoped
that our approach might get the better of \heir timidity ; yet
during a long period, whilst we were waiting at Charlotteburg
for our stores and convalescents, they did not even furnish us with
the least information respecting the force collecting against us.
In short, Sir, we may have a powerful body of friends in North
Carolina, and indeed we have cause to be convinced that many of
the inhabitants wish well to his Majesty's arms ; but they have
not given evidence enough, either of their number or their activity,
to justify the stake of this province for the uncertain advantages
that might attend immediate junction with them. There is reason
to believe that such must have been the risk.

Whilst this army lay at Charlotteburg, Georgetown was taken
from the militia by the rebels ; and the whole country to the east
of the Santee gave such proofs of general defection that even the
militia of the High Hills could not be prevailed upon to join a
party of troops who were sent to protect our boats upon the river.
The defeat of Major Ferguson had so dispirited this part of the
country, and indeed the loyal subjects were so wearied by the long
continuance of the campaign, that Lieutenant Colonel Cruger,
(Commanding at Ninety-six) sent information to Earl Cornwallis,
that the whole district had determined to submit as soon as the
rebels should enter it. From these circumstances, from the consid-
eration that delay does not extinguish our hopes in North Carolina,

STATE RECORDS. 289

and from the long fatigue of the troops, which made it seriously
requisite to give some refreshment to the army, Earl Cornwallis
has resolved to remain for the present in a position which may
secure the frontiers without separating his force. In this situation
we shall be always ready for movement, whensoever opportunity
shall recommend it or circumstances require it. But the first
care must be to put Camden and Ninety-six into a better state of
defence, and to furnish them with ample stores and salt provisions.
Earl Cornwallis foresees all the difficulties of a defensive war. Yet
his Lordship thinks they cannot he weighed against the dangers
which must have attended an obstinate adherence to his former
plan. I am instructed by Earl Cornwallis to express, in the strong-
est terms, his Lordship's feelings with regard to the very effectual
measures which your Excellency had taken to forward his opera-
tions. His Lordship hopes that his fears of abusing your Excel-
lency's goodness in that particular may not have led him to neg-
lect making use of a force intended by your Excellency to he
employed by him. But as his Lordship knew not how far your
Excellency might aim at other objects in the Chesapeake (to which
point his Lordship's entreaty for co-operation was originally con-
fined) he could not think of assuming the power to order Major
General Leslie to Cape Fear river, though he pointed out the
utility of the measure in case it should be conceived within the
extent of your Excellency's purpose.

Lord Cornwallis farther desires me to say lie feels infinitely
obliged by the very flattering testimonials of approbation with
which your Excellency has been pleased to honour his success of
the 16th of August. He has signified your Excellency's thanks to
the officers and men, who received them with grateful acknowl-
edgement.

I have the honour to be, &c,

RAWDON.

STATE RECORDS.

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO LORD GEORGE GERMAIN'.

New York, October 30th, 1780.
My Lord :

I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of Your Lordship's
Original Dispatch marked No. 66, and Separate one of the 22d
July ; also Duplicates of those marked 63, 64 and 65 of Your
Secret and Separate Letters of the 4th July, with that of Your
Private Letter of the 5th and Circular one of that Month, together
with Two Original Letters, addressed to Vice Admiral Arbuth-
not and myself, dated the 3d of August, by the Swift Packet, which
arrived here on the 12th Instant.

I have the pleasure to acquaint Your Lordship that the Fleet
from England, under Convoy of His Majesty's Ships Hyena and
Adamant, with Recruits and Stores for this Army, arrived here
safe, after a favorable passage, on the loth Instant, and I have
the honor to transmit Returns of the State and Number of Recruits
received by this Opportunity.

Although I have received no Authentic Accounts from the
Southward since Lord Cornwallis' Letter of the 29th of August,
(a Copy of which I have the honor to transmit,) yet I think it my
duty to send to Your Lordship some Extracts from Rebel News
Papers lately received, without giving any opinion upon them,
except the improbability of anything very important having hap-
pened in that Quarter, as it appears from ihat Letter that his Lord-
ship did not seem inclined to make any such Detachment from his
Army without supporting it. Should Major Ferguson, however,
have met with a little Cheque, I hope it will not be productive of
any very bad consequences, as I trust his Lordship's Abilities will
soon recover it, to which the Expedition under Major General
Leslie may in some degree contribute. A Copy of my Instruc-
tions to that General Officer I have already had the honor of
Communicating to your Lordship. Major General Leslie sailed
from hence on the 16th, and I understand was seen entering the
Chesapeake on the 18th with a fair wind, so that he would prob-
ably be on James River on the 20th, and consequently interrupt
Mr. Gates' Communication with Virginia, and, I hope, strike at

STATE RECORDS.

his grand Depot at Petersburg soon after. Should General Les-
lie be so fortunate to succeed, it may be presumed Mr. Gates will
be prevented from pursuing offensive Operations, but should he
already have received Supplies to enable him to make a Move
with the Army he shall have collected, I am persuaded Lord Corn-
wallis, with the assistance of the Co-operating Corps under Major
General Leslie, which I have given entirely to his Lordship's
Orders, will pursue such Measures as may oblige Mr. Gates to
retire from those Provinces. Lord Cornwallis was informed by
me, previous to General Leslie's sailing upon this Expedition, of
that General Officer's being to act from his Lordship's Orders,
and I sent him at the same time a Copy of my Instructions to
General Leslie.

By the Present opportunity I have the honor to transmit to
Your Lordship some Original Dispatches which were lately inter-
septed in a Rebel Mail we were lucky enough to take entire,
and contain matters of no small importance. The Letters now
sent appear to be such as are of the most consequence ; those that
are less so shall be transmitted to Your Lordship by the next
opportunity.

I shall in a few days send to Charles-Town all the Recruits
belonging to the Southern Army, and then, including the Corps
under General Leslie, Lord Cornwallis will have full 11,306 Effec-
tive rank and file under his Orders. Washington has not *s yet
detached a single Man to the Southward, and by all Accoixnts
from General Arnold, Gates cannot have above S00 Continental
Troops with him.

General Washington still remains at or near Tappan, with a
Corps of 11,400 Men under his immediate Orders. The French
have not moved from Rhode Island, but are adding Fortifications
to that Place. Admiral Arbuthnot is Watching Monsr Ternay.
While we remain superior at Sea, and can Command the Sound
of Long Island, 1 do not think the Enemy will attempt anything
against us ; but should they get the Command of the Sound, Your
Lordship must be sensible that my present Force is very inade-
quate to that which can be brought against me.

Major Harnage, of the 62d Regiment, will have the honor of
delivering my Dispatches. This Officer's Services with the

STATE RECORDS.

Northern Army will, I doubt not, insure him Your Lordship's
favor and Protection.

I have the honor to be, "With the greatest Respect,

Your Lordship's Most obedient and Most humble Servant,

H. CLINTON.

P. S. I must observe to Your Lordship that in the Effectives
that I have stated as under the Orders of Earl Cornwallis the
Sick are included, and 1 am afraid their Numbers are not incon-
siderable. H. C.

Right Honorable Lord George Germain.

LORD RAWDON TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Camp Between Broad Rivee & the Catawba, )
South Carolina, Octr. 31st, 1780. j
Sir:

By Lord Cornwallis's directions I had the Honor of writing to
your Excellency on the 29th Instant, detailing to your Excellency
the circumstances which had obliged Lord Cornwallis to relin-
quish «the attempt of penetrating to Hillsborough, and enclosing
the Copy of a Letter which his Lordship made me write to Major
General Leslie upon that occasion.

On further consideration, His Lordship reflecting upon the
difficulties of a defensive war, & the hopes which your Excellency
would probably build of our success in this quarter, has thought it
advisable not only to recommend more strongly to Major General
Leslie a plan which may enable us to take an active part, but
even to make it his request, in case it should not be incompatible
with your Excellency's further arrangements.

Lord Cornwallis is particularly induced to invite Major General
Leslie to co-operation in Cape Fear river by the supposition that
your Excellency may not want these troops during the winter ;
and they may join your Excellency in the Spring, scarcely later
than should they on the approach of that Season sail from any
part of the Chesapeake Bay.

STATE RECORDS. 293

A further motive proceeds from the little prospect that the
Expedition on its original plan should compass any service
adequate to its force & to your Excellency's expectations.
However, as views might subsist which were not explained to
Lord Cornwallis, His Lordship has not ventured absolutely to
order the descent in Cape Fear River ; And the enclosed Copy of
the second Letter written to Major General Leslie will satisfy
your Excellency upon what terms the measure has been pressed.

I have the Honor to be, Sir, with the highest respect,

Your Excellency's Most Obedt. & most humble Servt.,

RAWDON.
H. E. Sir H. Clinton, K. B., Commander-in-Chief, &c, &c, &c.

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO MAJ. GENL. LESLIE.

New York, 2d November, 17S0.
Sie:
Having already put you under the orders of Lord Cornwallis,
who must, of course, be the best judge of Operations to the South-
ward, it may be needless to say anything more. But lest you
should not receive any orders from His Lordship, or obtain certain
intelligence relative to him, or have reason to Suppose you can
better assist his Operations by a diversion made nearer him, I
think it necessary to give you some hints respecting Cape Fear
River, and how far the acting upon that River will Operate.
Should Lord Cornwallis have passed the Yadkin, and be advanced
towards Hillsborough, I think yon cannot act anywhere so well
as on James River, approaching sometimes towards the Roanoke,
but not passing that River without orders from Lord Cornwallis.
If you have every reason to believe that his Lordship meets with
Opposition at his passage of the Yadkin, I think a Move on Cape
Fear River will operate effectually. I have had much conversa-
tion with General O'Hara on this subject. I have given liini
every Information respecting that Move, and I trust, after con-
sulting him, you will act in the best manner possible to fulfill the
object of all your Instructions, a Diversion in favour of Lord

STATE RECORDS.

Cornwallis. That you may be the better judge of his plan, I
send you Copies of such of his Letters which give any hints
towards it.

Should you determine to quit Chesapeak you will apply to the
Officer commanding in the Naval Line, to whom Sir George Rod-
ney intends giving corresponding Instructions. As you will meet,
of course, in Cape Fear River a considerable number of Gallies,
Armed Vessels, &c, I wish, in case you quit Chesapeak, that all
those now with you may be sent back to us. You will, of course,
cautiously avoid inrolling any of the Militia of Princess Ann or
elsewhere, without you determine to Establish a Post. Those,
however, who voluntarily join you must be taken care of.
I have the honor to be, &c, &c,

H. CLINTON.
Honble. Major General Leslie.

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO EARL CORNWALLIS.

(Extract.)

New York, November 6, 1780.

Your Lordship can judge of the strength of this part of the
army by that under your own orders, and will agree with me
that it is scarcely possible for me to detach a greater force from
it, or of our being able to make such efforts in Chesapeak Bay
as have now almost become necessary. However, when I know
your Lordship's success in North Carolina and your determination
respecting a post on Elizabeth River, I will then consider what
additional force I can spare. If your Lordship determines to with-
draw that post I shall in that case think your present force, includ-
ing General Leslie's, quite sufficient.

By the copy of instructions last sent, and those now forwarded
to General Leslie, your Lordship will perceive I mean that you
should take the command of the whole. If my wishes are ful-
filled, they are that yon may Establish a post at Hillsborough,
feed it from Cross Cre'ek, and be able to keep that of Portsmouth.
A few troops will do it, and carry on desultory expeditions in

STATE EECOKDS. 295

Chesapeak till more solid operations can take place, of which I
fear there is no prospect, without we are considerably reinforced.
The moment I know your Lordship's determination to keep a
post at Portsmouth I will, as I said before, consider what addi-
tional force I can spare. Once assured of our remaining supe-
rior at sea, I might possibly send two thousand more for this win-
ter's operations.

Operations in Chesapeak are but of two sorts : Solid operation,
with a fighting army, to call forth our friends and support them,
or a post, such as Portsmouth, carrying on desultory expeditions,
stopping up in a great measure the Chesapeak, and, by com-
manding James River, prevent the enemy from forming any
considerable depots upon it or moving in any force to the south-
ward of it. Such, my Lord, are the advantages I expect from a
station at Portsmouth, and I wish it may appear to you in the
same light.

LORD GEORGE GERMAIN TO EARL 'CORNWALLIS.

Whitehall, 9th Novr., 1780.
Earl Cornwallis.
My Lord :

I had the very great pleasure to receive from Captain Eoss,
who arrived in London on the 9th of last Month, your Lordship's
dispatches Ns. 1. and 2., which I immediately laid before the King,
who read with the highest satisfaction the Account contained in
the latter of the very glorious and complete Victory obtained by
your Lordship over the rebels near Camden on the 16th of Aug-
ust.

The great Superiority of the Enemy in Numbers over the Forces
under your Command, His Majesty observed, distinguished this
Victory from all that have been achieved since the Commence-
ment of the Rebellion ; and though it might have been expected
that the long continuance of the War would have increased the
Military Skill and Discipline of the Enemy, your Lordship's com-
plete Success is a brilliant Testimony that the Spirit and Intre-
pidity of the King's Troops will always triumph over them, and

296 STATE RECORDS.

that however they may exceed in Numbers, the Vigor and Perse-
verance of the British Soldiers will overcome all Resistance, when
led on by an able and determined Commander, seconded by gal-
lant and judicious Officers. It is therefore particularly pleasing
to me to obey His Majesty's Commands by signifying to your
Lordship His Royal Pleasure, that you do acquaint the Officers
and Soldiers of the brave Army under your Command that their
Behaviour upon that glorious day is highly approved by their Sov-
ereign, and you will particularly express to Lord Rawdon, Lieu-
tenant Colonels "Webster and Tarleton, His Majesty's Appiobation
of their judicious and spirited Conduct. The latter indeed has a
double Claim to Praise for his great Alertness in overtaking Gen-
eral Sumpter's detachment before they were apprized of Gates'
defeat and by their destruction rendering the Victory at Camden
still more decisive. Captain Ross's Services have been rewarded,
in consequence of your Lordship's Recommendation, with a Brevet
of Major, but you will perceive by the inclosed Copy of Lord
Amherst's Letter to me that it is not judged fit at present to give
Lieutenant Colonel Tarleton the same Rank in the Army which
he holds in the Provincials.

The steps your Lordship immediately took for improving your
Victory were highly judicious, and must be attended with the
most important Consequences ; nor was your determination to
inflict exemplary punishment on those Traitors who had repeated
the Violation of their Oaths of Allegiance, or broken their Parole
and taken Arms against the King, less wise or promotive of the
great Object of the War, the Restoration of the Constitution ; for
the most disaffected will now be convinced that We are not afraid
to punish, and will no longer venture to repeat their Crimes in
the hope of Impunity should they be detected, and those who are
mure moderate will be led to withdraw from a Cause which is
evidently declining before it becomes desperate, and they expose
themselves to the Consequences they may reasonably apprehend
will fall upon such as persist in Rebellion to the last.

The Civil Regulations you have made for South Carolina, as
far as I am informed of them by your Lordship and Mr. Simpson,
appear extremely prudent and proper, and I am glad to find they
are satisfactory to the Merchants here who are deeply connected
with that Province. Such of the Civil Officers as are in England

STATE RECORDS.

have received Orders to return, and the greatest Part will sail with
the first Convoy. As the Province is not yet restored to Peace,
it is not judged proper to appoint a Governor, but as the Lieut.
Govr. is going out he can exercise all the functions of a Governor
in Chief in Consequence of His Majesty's Commission to Lord
William Campbell, which devolves to him ; and as it is the King's
wish to convince the People of America that no Abridgement of
their former Liberties is intended, but that they will be restored
to all the Privileges of their former Constitution, the Exercise of
such Powers as it may be fitting to allow the Civil Authority to
possess, in the present Situation of Affairs, being in the Hands of
the Constitutional Officers of the Province, must have a good
effect. Your Lordship will, therefore, endeavor to throw the
Conduct of Civil Matters into their former Channels, as far as you
shall judge expedient to permit the Civil Officer to act. I impa-
tiently expect to hear of your further Progress, and that Sir Henry
Clinton and Vice-Admiral Arbuthnot have found Means of Send-
ing a Force into the Chesapeak to co-operate with you ; for if that
de done I have not the least doubt, from your Lordship's vigor-
ous and alert Movements, the whole Country South of the Dela-
ware will be restored to the King's Obedience in the Course of
the Campaign.

I understand the Congress evade an Exchange of the Conven-
tion Troops with the Garrison of Charles Town, under the Pre-
tence that the Time of Service of the greatest Part of it will
expire in a little Time, and the Men will then be no longer
Soldiers, and not entitled to be considered as Prisoners of "War;
and as the Expense of maintaining these People is enormous,
some Means must be found of relieving the Public from it, and
counteracting the Chicane of that faithless Body.

What appears to me the most practical Measures for these
Purposes are the inducing the Prisoners to enter on board the
Ships of War or Privateers, or to go as Recruits to the Regiments
in the West Indies, or as Volunteers to serve upon the Expedition
against ttie Spanish Settlements from Jamaica; and Your Lord-
ship will, therefore, take the proper Steps for disposing of as
many of them as possible in these several Ways, or in such others
as may occur to you as more practicable & effectual.
I am, &c,

GEO. GERMAIN.

STATE RECORDS.

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO MAJOR GENERAL LESLIE.

New York, November 12, 1780.
Sir :
I have this morning received your dispatches, and by that
dated the 7th instant I observe your intention of quitting the
Chesapeak, and at the requisition of Lord Cornwallis, made to yon
in a letter written by Lord Rawdon, that you propose going to
Cape Fear River with the force under your command. I entirely
approve of you having obeyed Earl Cornwallis's directions and
desire on this subject, which I hope will be attended with every
favourable advantage.

It is not necessary for me to enter upon the matter of your
operations in the Chesapeak, as they will now cease.
I have the honour, &c,

H. CLINTON.

LORD CORNWALLIS TO MAJOR GENERAL LESLIE.

No. 107.

Camp at "Wyxxsborough, Between Broad j
River & Wateree, 12th Novr., 1780. f

Dr. Sir :

You will, I hope, have received some Letters written by Lord
Rawdon during my Illness. I am now perfectly recovered and
almost as strong as ever. Had I attempted to penetrate into the
further part of N. Carolina, my small Army wou'd have beeu
exposed to the utmost Hazard, and it wou'd have been as impos-
sible to have co-operated with you in the Chesapeak as with Sir
Henry Clinton at N. York. If you come to Cape Fear, of which
at present I have little doubt, by the help of Gallies and small
Craft which will be sent from Charlestown you will easily secure
a Water Conveyance for your Stores up to Cross Creek. I will,

STATE RECORDS. 299s

on hearing of your Arrival in Cape Fear River, instantly march
with everything that can be safely spared from this Province,,
which I am sorry to say is most exceedingly disaffected, to join
yon at Cross Creek. "We will then give our Friends in N. Caro-
lina a fair Trial. If they behave like Men it may be of the
greatest Advantage to the Affairs of Britain. If they are as
dastardly & pusillanimous as our Friends to the Southward, we
must leave them to their Fate & secure what they have got. If
you find it difficult, from contrary Winds, to get into Cape Fear,,
the Entrance of which is not easy to Vessels coming from the
Northward by the projection of the Frying Pan Shoal, it will be-
very little out of your way to look into Charles Town; And
perhaps, tho' not probably, Balfour may give you the 64th instead
of some of the Corps d'Elite which yon have brought with
you. At any rate we may settle our Operations more fully, &
you may enter Cape Fear River with every Assistance that can
be procured from them. All the Men of War with you, except
the Romulus, can go into Cape Fear if wanted, but I believe that
will not be the Case, and the Sandwich will be of more use than
any of them. I can only say that I most impatiently long for
the day of meeting with You.

I cannot help mentioning a Thing which has given me the-
greatest Concern. Some of my Letters from the Northward have
made me suspect that you thought that your Removal from Caro-
lina was owing to an Application to me. I most solemnly declare
upon my honor that nothing can be more false. When I came to
Town after the Surrender Sir Henry mentioned my going with
him to the Northward. I said that I was ready to serve where-
ever he thought fit to employ me, & had no Objection to remain
in Carolina if he thought my Services conld be useful in that
Province. He said something Civil about Climate. He then
wished me to take this Command. However painful & distress-
ing my Situation has been, & however dark the Prospect there was,
it cannot be supposed that, as a Military Man, I shou'd not rather
chuse to command to the Southward than be third at New York.
But so far from expressing a Desire to have any other Officer
remain with me in preference to you, I shou'd have wished for
you in preference to all others ; But I did not presume to
interfere in any Degree with Sir Henry's Arrangements, nor did

300 STATE EEECODS.

I say more, or express myself stronger on the Subject of my own
saying, than I have described in this Letter. I shall therefore
hope that we shall meet with the same Cordiality, & continue on
the same footing of Friendship, which has hitherto subsisted
between us, & that you will believe me to be, &c,

CORNWALLIS.
Honble. Major Gen. Leslie.

MAJOR GENL. LESLIE TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

On board the RojiuLfs.
Hampton Road, 19th November, 1780.
Sib:

I have the honour to send your Excellency Duplicates of three
Letters sent by Lieutenant Salisbury, of this ship, the 8th Instant,
which I hope came to hand.

I told you in that of the 8th that in consequence of Lord Raw-
don's Letter (the Original I now send you, a Copy went by Mr.
Salisbury) that I had determined to reinforce Lord Cornwallis as
soon as possible with the whole of my Command. Part of the
Troops embarked the 11th; I then fixed on a Garrison to continue
at Portsmouth as a Blind. The 15th I had all on board except 500
Men to Protect the Depy. Commy. General's Vessel that got on
ground at high Water, but by Exertion she was afloat at two in
the Morning, and the rear Guard embarked. The Wind then
came favorable, and continued to bring us all into this Road.
Our Anchor was no sooner down than a hard Gale of Wind came
on at N. W., and continued that Night and the following day.
Had we met it in Elizabeth River most of the Ships would have got
entangled or aground, and might have been insulted by the Enemy;
but not a Shot has been fired, so they can't say we are drove from
their Shore.

(The last twenty-four hours was an unpleasant time, for until
then the Refugees & followers of the Army were ignorant of my
design to Evacuate the Place ; however, there was a necessity for
it, & no time was lossed.)

STATE RECORDS.

The Enemy are in some force at McKay's Mills under a Gen-
eral Mulenburg; its between Suffolk & Smithfield, a strong Situa-
tion. When the Letter from Lord Rawdon arrived I was meditat-
ing to get round him by landing in two Divisions, the one in
Nansemond River, the other inWt. Bay. This would have created
a delay of some days, which I thought too precious to throw
away on Mr. Mulenburg.

As to Naval Matters, I refer your Excellency to Commodore
Gayton's Letters. He has been most attentive and active on every
occasion.

The people in general seem sorry at our leaving this District,
and I believe would have been happy to have remained quiet at
home; it is a plentiful Country all round our Posts. From my
first hearing of Ferguson's fate, /inwardly suspected what came
to pass; therefore I never issued any Proclamation of my Own,
nor did I encourage the People to take Arms. Many blamed
me for it, but now they think I acted right.

I left the Works entire, and I still hope you will be enabled to
take up this ground, for it certainly is the Key to the Wealth of
Virginia & Maryland. It is to be lamented we are so weak in
Ships of War, for there's a Fleet of Sixty Sail expected hourly
from the West Indies, besides the valuable Ships or Craft ready
to Sail from the Chesapeake.

Had we gone up the River we should have benefited as Indi-
viduals, loaded with Plunder & Tobacco, but I am confident we
should have lost some of our large Ships, for they get aground on
every Move, even the King's Ships, who never want for Pilots.

One of my People sent to Ld. Cornwallis fell into the hands of
the Enemy. They made him drunk, and then produced my Slip of
Paper. You will see it in their Papers, I imagine ; it contained
nothing of Consequence. Since my last I am happy to inform
Your Excellency of the good behaviour of the Troops, and I
must say from the first being on Shore there has not been a
Complaint of a single Hessian ; it is a most respectable Corps.

You will observe from the Returns that the Provincial Troops
lose Men by Desertion ; most of those gone are Recruits from
the Enemy. They give now for Militia Men to serve till 1782 as
Substitutes from 4,000 to 6,000 Pound this Currency, and the

STATE RECORDS.

Dollar about One half-penny Sterling, which may be the reason
of those fellows leaving ns.

The People in general seem tired of the War, and wish for their
former Ease and Comforts. Indeed, as far as the Troops went,
the Men in general were at home, Except the very violent and those
gone as Militia Men. The better Sort in this Province are deep in
debt to the Merchants in England, and of course violent to a degree.

I am sorry to observe the Women don't Smile upon us.

In consequence of the Depredations committed by the Seamen,
Transport & Privateers Men & Refugees, &c, in the different
Creeks in Norfolk County, I left with the Clergyman of Ports-
mouth 100 Guineas to be distributed in small Portions to the
poorer Sort, who has lossed their all. I think this Money will be
well laid out, as it shews our intention was not to distress them.

I expect great Efforts from Col. Balfour, as I told him all my
Wants. This goes in a Schooner of Mr. Goodrich's, who has been
very useful. About 20 Refugees have come with us; I shall Arm
the whole.

I have the honour to be, Sir,

Your most obedient & Most humble Servt.,

A. LESLIE.

LORD CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

Camp at Wynnesboeough, Deer. 3d, 17S0.
Sie :
I am just honoured with Your letters of the 5 & 6 of last Month ;
Lord Rawdon during my illness informed Your Excellency in his
letters of the 28th & 31st of October of the various causes which
prevented my penetrating into N. Carolina ; I shall not trouble you
with a recapitulation, except a few words about poor Major Fer-
guson. I had the honour to inform Your Excellency that Major
Ferguson had taken infinite pains with some of the Militia of
Ninety-six. He obtained my permission to make an incursion into
Tryon County, whilst the Sickness of my Army prevented mov-
ing. As he had only Militia, and the small remains of his own

STATE RECORDS.

Corps, without baggage or Artillery, and as he promised to come
back if He heard of any Superior force, I thought He could do no
harm, and might help to keep alive the Spirits of our Friends in
N. Carolina, which might be damped by the slowness of our
Motions. The event proved unfortunate, without any fault of
Major Ferguson's. A numerous and unexpected Enemy came
from the Mountains; as they had good horses their movements
were rapid; Major Ferguson was tempted to stay near the Mount-
ains longer than he intended, in hopes of cutting off Col. Clarke
on his return from Georgia. He was not aware that the enemy
was so near him, and i-n endeavouring to execute my Orders of
passing the Catawba and joining me at Charlotte-town He was
Attacked by a very superior force and totally defeated on King's
Mountain.

Wynnesborough, my present Position, is an healthy spot, well
situated to Protect the greatest part of the Northern Frontier,
and to assist Camden and Ninety-Six. The Militia of the latter,
on which alone we could place the smallest dependence, was so
totally disheartened by the defeat of Ferguson that of that whole
District we could with difficulty assemble one hundred, and even
those I am convinced would not have made the smallest resistance
if they had been Attacked. I determined to remain at this place
until an Answer arrived from Genl. Leslie, on which my Plan for
the Winter was to depend, and to use every possible means of put-
ting the Province into a state of defence, which I found to be
absolutely necessary, whether my Campaign was Offensive or
Defensive. Bad as the state of oar affairs was on the Northern
Frontier, the Eastern part was much worse. Col. Tynes, who Com-
manded the Militia of the High Hills of Santee, and who was
posted on Black River, was Surprized and taken, and his Men lost
all their Arms. Col. Marion had so wrought on the minds of the
People, partly by the terror of his threats & cruelty of his punish-
ments, and partly by the Promise of Plunder, that there was
scarce an Inhabitant between the Santee and Pedee that was not
in Arms against us. Some parties had even crossed the Santee, and
carried terror to the Gates of Charles-town. My first object was
to reinstate matters in that quarter, without which Camden could
receive no supplies. I therefore sent Tarleton, who pursued
Marion for several days, obliged his Corps to take to the Swamps,

30i STATE RECORDS.

and by convincing the Inhabitants there was was a power superior
to Marion, who could likewise reward & Punish, so far checked
the Insurrection that the greatest part of them have not dared
openly to appear in Arms against us since his expedition.

The 63d Regt., under Major Wemyss, had been mounted on
indifferent horses of the Country for the purpose of reducing and
disarming the Gheraws. It had afterwards been sent by Lord
Rawdon for the security of Ninety-six. When I sent Lt. Col.
Tarleton to the Low Country, I Ordered Major Wemyss to come
down to Broad River, to keep constantly moving on either side of
the River he might think proper, for the Protection of the Mills-
from which the Army subsisted, and for the preservation of the
Country. Sumpter then lay with about 300 Men, partly of
Militia and partly of the Banditti who have followed him ever
since the reduction of this Province,, near Hill's Iron works,
between the Catawba and Broad River, about forty miles in our
front. Branan, Clarke and others had different Corps plundering
the houses and putting to death the well-affected Inhabitants
between Tyger River and Pacolet. Major Wemyss, who had just
past Broad River at Brierly's Ferry, came to me on the seventh
of last Month and told me that he had information that Sumpter
had moved to Moore's Hill, within five miles of Fishdam Ford,
and about twenty-five Miles from the place where the 63d then lay ;
that he had accurate accounts of his position and good Guides, and
that he made no doubt of being able to Surprize and rout him.
As the defeating of so dariug and troublesome a Man as Sumpter,
and dispersing such a Banditti, was a great object, I consented to
his making the trial on the 9th, at daybreak, and gave him Forty
of the Dragoons which Tarleton had left with me, desiring him,
however, neither to put them in the Front nor to make any use of
them during the night. Major Wemyss marched so early and so
fast on the night of the 8th that He arrived at Moore's Hill soon
after midnight. He then had information that Sumpter had marched
that evening to Fishdam ford, where he lay with his rear close to
Broad River on a low piece of ground. The Major immediately
proceeded to Attack him in his new Position, & succeeded so well
as to get into his Camp whilst the Men were all sleeping round
the fires ; but as Major Wemyss rode into the Camp at the head of
the Dragoons, and the 63d followed them on horseback, the enemy's

STATE RECORDS.

Arms were not secured, and some of them recovering from the first
alarm got their Rifles, and with the first fire wounded Major
Wemyss in several places and put the Cavalry into disorder.
The 63d then dismounted and Killed and Wounded about Seventy
of the Rebels, drove several over the River and dispersed the rest.
The Command, however, devolving on a very young Officer, who
neither knew the ground nor Major Wemyss's plan, nor the strength
of the enemy, some few of which kept firing irom the wood on
our people who remained in the enemy's Camp, and who were
probably discovered by their fires, Our troops came away before
daybreak, leaving Major Wemyss and 22 Sergts. & Rank & File
at a house close to the Field of Action. In the morning those
who were left with a flag of truce with the wounded found that
the enemy were all gone, but on some of their scouting Parties
discovering that our People had likewise retired Sumpter returned
& took Major Wemyss's Parole for himself and the wounded Sol-
diers. Major Wemyss is gone to Charlestown and is in a fair way
of recovery.

The enemy on this event cried Victory, and the whole country
came in fast to join Sumpter, who passed the Broad River and
joined Branan, Clarke, &c. I detached Major McArthur, with the
1st Battalion of the 71st and the 63d Regt., after having sent my
Aid-de-Camp, Lieut. Money, to take the command of it, to Brierly's
Ferry, on Broad River, in order to cover our Mills and to give some
check to the enemy's march to Ninety-Six. At the same time I
recalled Lieut. Col. Tarleton from the Low Country. Tarleton was
so fortunate as to pass not only the Wateree but the Broad River
without Genl. Sumpter's being apprised of it. who, having
increased his Corps to one thousand, had passed the Ennoree
and was on the point of Attacking our hundred Militia at
Williams's House, fifteen miles from Ninety-Six, and where I
believe He would not have met with much resistance. Lt. Col.
Tarleton would have surprized him on the South of Ennoree had
not a deserter of the 63d given notice of his march- He, how-
ever, cut to pieces his rear guard in passing that Kiver, and pur-
sued his main body with such rapidity that he could not safely
pass the Tyger, and was obliged to halt on a very strong positioD
at a place called Black Stocks, close to it. Tarleton had with him
only his Cavalry and the 6"3d mounted, his Infantry and 3-Pounder
15—20

306 STATE RECORDS.

being several miles behind. The Enemy, not being able to retreat
with safety, and being informed of Tarleton's approach and want
of Infantry by a "Woman who passed him on the March and con-
trived by a nearer Road to get to them, were encouraged by their
great superiority of numbers and began to fire on the 63d, who
were dismounted. Lt. Col. Tarleton, to save them from consider-
able loss, was obliged to Attack, altho' at some hazard, and drove
the enemy, with loss, over the River. Sumpter was dangerously
wounded, three of their Colonels Killed, and about 120 Men Killed,
Wounded or taken. On our side about 50 were Killed & wounded.
Lieuts. Gibson & Cope, of the 63d, were amongst the former, and
my Aid-de-Camp, Lieut. Money, who was a most promising Officer,
died of his "Wounds a few days after. Lt. Col. Tarleton, as soon
as lie had taken care of his wounded, pursued & dispersed the
remaining part of Snmpter's Corps, and then, having assembled
some Militia under Mr. Cunningham, whom I appointed Brigr.
General of the Militia of that district, and who has by far the
greatest influence in that country, He returned to the Broad
River, where he at present remains, as well as Major McArthur,
in the neighborhood of Brierley's ferry.

It is not easy for Lt. Col. Tarleton to add to the reputation He
has acquired in this Province, but the defeating 1,000 Men
posted on very strong ground and occupying log houses with
190 Cavalry and SO Infantry is a proof of that Spirit and those
talents which must render the most essential services to his Coun-
try. Lt. Col. Tarleton commends much the good behaviour of
the Officers and Men under his command, and He particularly
mentions Lieut. Skinner of the 16th Regt. of Infantry, who does
duty with the Legion, as having distinguished himself. Lt. Col.
Balfour, by putting the Prisoners on Board of Ships, is enabled to
spare the 64th Regt. from Charlestown, and sent them to secure
the navigation of the "Wateree from Nelson's Ferry and to com-
municate with Camden. This is the present state of our affairs.
Smallwood has been encamped from the beginning of last Month
with about thirteen hundred Militia, a Corps of 250 Continentals
under Morgan and 70 Dragoons Commanded by "Washington,
about 12 Miles on this side of Charlotte Town, his front guarded
by Davie and other irregular Corps, who have committed the
most shocking cruelties and the most horrid Murders on those sus-

STATE RECORDS

pected of being on r friends that I ever heard of. Gates joined
him the Week before last, with about 12 hundred Continentals
and Six & Eighteen Months-men, and 300 Cavalry under White
and Armand. Morgan's Infantry, and Washington with 100 Cav-
alry, came down on the 1st in the evening to Attack a Block
house built by Col. Rngeley, in which he had placed himself with
100 Militia. Lord Rawdon, who Commands at Camden, and had
notice of their approach, sent to Rngeley to Order him to retire
to Camden, but He answered that, as the Enemy had no Cannon,
he was determined to defend himself to the last extremity, and had
no fear of being taken. The enemy's Infantry did not advance
within six Miles of his Block house, but the Cavalry surrounded
it and Summoned him, and He instantly surrendered without fir-
ing a shot. I am informed that Greene is expected in a few days
to relieve. Gates.

As it will be necessary to drive back the Enemy's army, and at
the same time to maintain a superiority on both our Flanks, and
as I thought the co-operation of General Leslie, even at the dis-
tance of Cape Fear River, would be attended with many difficul-
ties, I have sent Crnizers off the Fryingpan to bring him into
Charlestown, and I hourly expect his arrival. After everything
that has happened I will not presume to make Your Excellency
any sanguine promises. The force you have sent me is greater
than I expected, and full as much as I think you could possibly
spare, unless the enemy detached in force to the Southward. The
utmost exertion of my abilities shall be used to employ them to
the best advantage.

Whenever our operations commence Your Excellency may
depend on hearing from me as frequently as possible, and it is
from events alone that any future Plan can be proposed.
I have the honour to be, with great esteem,

Your most Obedient and Most humble servant,

CORNWALLIS.
His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton, K. B.,&c.,&c, &c.

308 STATE RECORDS.

SIR HENRY CLINTON TO EARL CORNWALLIS.

New Yokk, 13th December, 1780.
My Lord :

I am honored with Your Lordship's Letters of the 3d and 22d
of September, by the Thames, which arrived here the 12th Ultimo ;
And on the 5th instant I received, by the Beaumont, those from
Lord Eawdon and Colonel Balfour to General Leslie.

As that General received Your first Invitation on the 7th
Ultimo, I naturally supposed that he would have sailed very soon
after to join You at Cape Fear ; but am sorry to find he did not
move from the Qhesapeak before the 22d. Inclosed I send your
Lordship a Return of the Force that embarked with him ; it was
all I could spare, and I thought it fully adequate to the Services
required. My first Instructions to General Leslie put that Corps
entirety subject to Your Lordship's orders. I did not, I confess,
however, suppose it would move to Cape Fear. But having after-
wards too good reason to dread Ferguson's Fate, I in a second
Instruction recommended that Measure as the only Salutary one
under the circumstances I apprehended Ferguson's Defeat would
place your Lordship.

By a letter of Colonel Balfour's to General Leslie (without
date) are these Expressions : " I have only to repeat that the
Safety of this Province now is concerned in your getting as fast
as possible near us." I should be sorry to understand from this
that the Province is really in danger. Wishing, however, to give
your Lordship's operations in North Carolina every Assistance in
my Power, tho' I can ill spare it, I have sent another Expedition
into the Chesapeak, under the Orders of Brigadier General Arnold,
Lieutenant Colonels Dundas and Simcoe. The Force by land is
not equal to that which sailed with General Leslie, but I am not
without Hopes it will operate essentially in favor of Your Lord-
ship, either by striking at Gates's Depot at Petersburg, (which I
have still reason to think is considerable,) or finally by taking Post
at Portsmouth, which I have ever considered as very important,
for Reasons most obvious. If we take Post there, fortify, &
assemble the Inhabitants, it ought not afterwards to be quitted ;
and, therefore, I cannot suppose Your Lordship will wish to alter

STATE KECORDS. 309

the destination of this Corps without absolute necessity. On the
contrary, I flatter myself that, should Yonr Success be such as
Your Lordship will, I hope, now have reason to expect, You will
reinforce that Corps and enable it to act offensively. When that
is your Intention, I am to request that, the following Corps may,
in their Turn, be considered for that Service, Viz.: The Troop of
17th Dragoons, the Yagers, the Detachment of the 17th Foot,
and the Provincial Light Infantry, &c.

I need not tell Your Lordship that these Detachments have left
me very bare indeed of Troops, nor that Washington still con-
tinues very strong, at least 12,000 Men ; that he has not detached
a single Man as yet to the Southward, except Lee's cavalry, about
250. I need not tell You, also, there are 6,000 French already at
Rhode Island, but I must acquaint Your L'ordship that six
compleat Regiments more are expected under Convoy of a Num-
ber of Capital Ships. Whatever may have been the Intention of
the French in sending a Reinforcement to this Country, I think,
however, the Season is now too far advanced to expect the last,
and, was I not clearly of that opinion, I should scarcely dare to
detach as I do.

As I have already said, I think Your Lordship's Movements to
the Southward most important, and as I have ever done, so will
now give them all the Assistance I can. It remains to be proved
whether we have Friends in North Carolina. 1 am sure we had
three years ago. That Experiment will now, however, be fairly
tried ; if it succeeds, and we hold the Entrance of the Chesapeak,
I think the rebels will scarcely risk another Attempt upon those
Provinces.

. I am very happy to find by Your Letter to General Leslie that
Your Lordship is so well recovered from your late Indisposition
which had given me the greatest Pain & Concern.

As Your Lordship's Dispatch of the 12th November, & Lord
Rawdon's & Col. Balfour's Letters to General Leslie, brought here
by the Beaumont, were addressed on His Majesty's Service, I took
the Liberty to break the Seals, supposing they might contain
Intelligence necessary for my Information.

Should your Lordship at any time judge it expedient to rein-
force the Corps under General Arnold, You will of course either
continue it under his Orders or send any other General Officer

310 STATE EECOEDS.

you think proper to take the Command, whenever you may think
such Alteration necessary.
I have the honour to be,

Your Lordship's most obedient & most humble Servant.

H. CLINTON.
To Lieut. General Earl Cornwallis.

EARL CORNWALLIS TO SIR HENRY CLINTON.

No. 120.

Wynnesbokough, 22d Deer., 1780.
Sir :

I have the Pleasure to inform your Excellency that Major Gen.
Leslie arrived with his whole Fleet at Charlestown on the 14th of
this Month, and a great part of stores for the Quarter Master Gen-
eral. The Species of Troops which compose the Reinforcement
are, exclusive of the Guards & Regiment of Bose, exceedingly bad.
I do not mean by representing this to your Excellency to insinu-
ate that you have not sent every Assistance to me which you cou'd
with Safety & Prudence spare from New York. From the
account which your Excellency does me the honor to send me of
the Situation & Strength of General Washington's Army and the
French Force at Rhode Island, I am convinced that you have done
so. But I think it but Justice to the Troops serving in this
District to State the Fact, lest the Services performed by the
Southern Army shou'd appear inadequate to what might be
expected from the Numbers of which it may appear to consist.
The Fleet from New York with the Recruits arrived a few days
before Genl. Leslie.

It was entirely owing to accident that so many Old Ships were
left at Charlestown. They were very near being lost in a Gale of
Wind off the Bar, & were obliged to come in to refit. I have
ordered some of them to be ready to sail with the first Convoy,
which will go as soon as the Officers of the Navy think they can
proceed with Safety.

STATE RECORDS. 311

As soon as the Victuallers are unloaded I shall apply to the
Commanding Officer of the Navy for a Convoy to return with them
to England, taking also such Transports as are unfit to continue
longer in the Service, on board of which the Invalids will be
embarked.

The Want of Specie in this Province puts us under the greatest
difficulties. Every method has been pursued to keep the Money
in the Hands of the Contractors for Government, and to prevent
the Imposition of the Merchants. But the sum actually in the
Province is so inadequate to the necessary Demands that we have
scarcely been able to pay the Subsistence of the Troops.

I do not quite understand the State of the Cartel ; but the Num-
ber of Prisoners at. Charlestown is a great Inconvenience.

Lt. Col. Balfour informs me that Major Delancy requested in
your Excellency's Name that he wou'd endeavor to procure some
Horses to be sent to Genl. Vaughan ; but the great Demand for
the Service of this Province for Horses for Cavalry, mounted
Infantry, & Quarter Master General's Department has put it out
of his Power to do so. Cavalry Accoutrements at Charlestown
are very dear & bad. Shou'd your Excellency have received from
England more than are wanted for the Service at New York, they
will be very useful here.

I am afraid the Expense of quartering the Troops at Charles-
town will be very great, but I do not know how it can be avoided
without breaking the Capitulation in Regard to the Property in
Town.

I have the honour to be, &c,

CORNWALLIS.
His Excellency Sir Henry Clinton.

GEN. B. LINCOLN TO GOV. R. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Charles Towx, January 3rd, 1 7S« >.
Dear Sir :
I was yesterday honoured with your favour of the 13th ulto.
It affords great pleasure to be informed that your militia have
been draughted, are on their march, and may sunn lie expected

STATE RECORDS.

here, where their services are greatly needed, and by the last
accounts from Philadelphia will probably soon be more so, while the
continued exertions of your state for the defence of this and of
Georgia leave no room to doubt of their zeal in the support of the
common Cause, and the particular interest of your neighbouring
states, who must view with pleasure your voluntary and timely
efforts to preserve their safety and happiness. The impartial His-
torian will record these acts among those virtuous deeds which
have reflected so much lustre on the first three years of Ameri-
can Independence.

"We can supply your Militia with arms, ammunition, cartridge
boxes and Camp Kettles. We are greatly deficient in the article
of tents ; if you could send us them, and some lead, they will be
particularly agreeable. Your Excellency will give me leave also to
recommend that some shoes, stockings, shirts, and small clothes be
sent on, for, from this long march, the men will be barefoot be-
fore they arrive here ; and from the want of Magazines, at which
the Militia can receive such necessary supplies, they become unfit
for duty, their health endangered, & they get a disrelish for the serv-
ice. Men would gladly pay for these things if they could pur-
chase them, but they too seldom have it in their power to do so,
and I am quite unhappy that, from the low state of our public
Magazines, I have little reason to expect we shall have it in our
power to remedy this evil. Provision is made for the reception
of your troops on the routes you have ordered them ; every allow-
ance will be made for the difficulties in marching Militia. I
know they are great, and will be so, until all of them are really
influenced by those principles of patriotism, that love of their
Country and concern for their own freedom and independence
which induced America, in the first Instance, to oppose the tyr-
anny of Britian.

I never mention Militia but I am filled with concern that we
are under the necessity of calling them out ; for there is such a
waste of time in marching to and from Camp, such sporting with
the public monies by the extraordinary expence in keeping up an
army in this way, such loss of husbandmen from the fields (being
double the number absent from their homes to those really in
arms) besides the more melancholly evils which arise from a call
so frequently of different men into Camp, many of whom are lost

STATE RECORDS. 313

before they become seasoned to it, and the distresses brought on
the families of those who are hurried away before they have an
opp'y of making the necessary provision for their subsistence
while absent, are misfortunes much to be regretted, and guarded
against if possible.

From this view of the matter I am induced, and always have
been inclined to wish that, instead of these frequent calls of the
Militia the Continental Battalions were filled up, and hoped that
from the recent evils felt by the late mode of keeping up an army
your state would have been led to have filled up your Contint.
Regiments. Hardly a sum can be named as a Bounty for a
Soldier who would engage during the war, or for three years,
which might not be given rather than pursue our present mode.
This will appear if we consider the men engaged for three years
only, and that but one-half of the Militia called out are in the
field at a time, which I think is true, and estimate the wages of a
man for three years, the several Bounties given to the Militia in
that time, and the expence of provision, waggons, &c, marching
to and from Camp, and the great loss of ammunition in shifting
from one hand to another, and I think the necessity and propriety
of filling up your Continental Battalions will be further evident
when we reflect that from men raised for a considerable length of
time, (a time sufficient in which to discipline them,) more essential
services may be expected than from a like number who are not
retained in service long enough to learn the duties, or become
inured to, the fatigues of the Camp, and that to avoid the dissatis-
faction which arises in the minds of the Militia on these frequent
calls is a mischief which we should avoid if consistent with the
safety of the State.

I have the honour to be, Dear Sir,

"With the highest sentiments of regard & Esteem,

Your most obedient Servant,

B. LINCOLN.

314 STATE RECORDS.

PETER MALLETT TO GOV. R. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Campbelton, 4th January, 17S0.
Sir:
I have not been honored with a line from your Excellency
since my letter by Genl. Butler. On my arrival here I found
myself in advance for Col. Lamb's Regiment, and other Troops,
passing and repassing, upwards of 14,000. I have therefore desired
my Brothers to wait on your Excellency, in order to receive a
Warrant for that sum at least. I am also to inform you that
there are many demands against Col. Lamb's detachment in the
Quarter Master's department and Hospital. I paid up those orders
so long as money lasted, and now I find the balance so much in
my favor, I have deferred advancing further until I am in Cash,
or that I have your approbation. There is now in the Hospital
and Town about 40 Continental Men, and there has not been
a smaller number since Major Hogg marched ; it is therefore
necessary that Bread-kind should be provided for those men at
least. The Militia of this County, which are ordered to South Car-
olina, are collected, and I have found them provision for their
March to Pedee. At the request of Genl. Butler we furnished
the Militia at Hillsborough with every thing necessary ; the meat
kind went partly from this place, and the bread kind, with some
Beef, was drawn from the Continental Stores there. Doctor
Ingram, who has attended the sick ever since July last, wishes
to know if your Excellency will advance him any money on the
strength of his account, which appears to be no small sum, and
for many necessaries he is in advance.

I am with due respect, Sir,

Your Obt. Servt.,

PETER MALLETT.

STATE RECORDS.

CHAS. JEWKES TO GOV. CASAVELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Wilmington. January 5th, 1780.
Sir:
Genl. Lillington shewed me your letter wherein your Excellency
requests to know the State of provisions and forage at Wilming-
ton, and also to know if any person will supply what Troops
march through Wilmington, which I have undertaken to do, and
have laid in provisions and forage sufficient for that purpose, which
I shall he much obliged to your Excellency to grant me a War-
rant for £6,000, which is about the amount of the provisions left,
and send it to Mr. John London, of Wilmington, who manages my
business in my absence, who will do every thing that will be
wanting for your service, as 1 am going out with Genl. Lillington's
Commissary.

I remain, your Excellency's very ob. hutnl. Serv't,

* CHARLES JEWKES.
Gov. Caswell.

GENL. ALEX. LILLINGTON TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Head Quarters, Brunswick, )
January 5th, 1780. f
Sir:
I reed, your Excellency's letter by Col. Lowrey, and am sorry
to find our public credit at so low an ebb that you have not been
able to borrow money at least sufficient to pay the men their
Bounty, as the Men, except what your Excellency paid, have been
obliged to march without it, which you are sensible is a real injury
to the service. As to the state of provisions and forage at Wil-
mington, there has been sufficient issued by Mr. Jewkes for all
the men that have come through Wilmington, but am persuaded
he must be soon considerable in advance; therefore must request
the favor of your Excellency to grant him a Warrant on the Treas-

316 STATE EECORDS.

ury for what sum be may write yon by my Express he may be in
want of. He goes out with me my Commissary, but has deputed
Mr. John London, who has undertaken the business, to furnish
what Troops may March through Wilmington with provisions and
forage ; Mr. Jewkes tells me there is plenty on hand ; which is
left under the care of Mr. London for that purpose. As to Mr.
James Bloodworth's purchases as District Contractor, I know
nothing of; he has never rendered me any account, where the pro-
visions, if any on hand, were to be had ; therefore, had Mr. Jewkes
stopt issuing, the service must have suffered considerably, as not
one person this way would have advanced their money on accounts
of the public, to have received payment when the Treasury thought
proper to take up your Excellency's Warrant for that purpose.

Mr. Tillery, the Quarter Master's, two letters I reed, by Col.
Lowrey. I am only waiting here for my baggage wagon. The
Troops are now on their March, two days since to the Boundary ;
there I have ordered them to halt until I come up with them,
when I shall make you a return of their numbers.

I remain, your Excellency's ob. huml. Serv't,

ALEX. LILLINGTON.

GENL. B, LINCOLN TO GOV. CASWELL.

[Prom Executive Letter Book.]

Charles Town, January 8th, 1780.
Dear Sir:

Since I did myself the honor of addressing your Excellency,
under the 3d Inst., I have reed, from Col. Mebane, the com-
manding Officer of your Troops here, the enclosed list of Deserters.

It is very alarming to observe such want of principle and faith,
that neither the one or the other is sufficient to restrain men from
such wicked and dangerous practices, and unhappy when deser-
tions become so frequent that, to correct the spirit of it, measures
must be adopted which our feelings would prompt us, if possible,
to avoid. I think if your Inhabitants could be induced to exert
themselves in apprehending deserters, and none were suffered to
remain in the Country with impunity, it would discourage many

STATE RECORDS. 317

from the attempt, as they could not avail themselves by such con-
duct, while others might be deterred from fear of that punishment
which such crimes justly deserve. Two Officers are now sent
from this place, and orders are given to others to exert themselves
in apprehending Deserters. But without the assistance of the
civil authorities and the aid and countenance of the Citizens our
endeavours will have little effect. I have directed our Officers to
wait on your Excellency and request your interposition in these
matters. "We learn from Savannah by the last accounts that the
60th Regiment is ordered to St. Augustine. I think the move-
ment of the Spaniards has alarmed the enemy and called their
attention to that place. We have no certain accounts from Pen-
sacola or Mobile, but Deserters say that they heard in Georgia
these places were taken ; hut these are mere reports.
I have the honor to be, Dr. Sir,

With the greatest respect,

Your Excellency's Mo. ob. Servt.,

B. LINCOLN.
Gov. Caswell.

GENL. ALEX. LILLINGTON TO GOV. Rx CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.l

South Carolina Boundary, January 10th, 1780.
Please your Excellency.
Sir:
After many difficulties, I have got what Troops have come up
over the line on the 6th Instant, which are on their march for
Charles Town. Agreeably to your Excellency's orders I have
enclosed a general return of the' Men, and shall esteem it a favor
done me if your Excellency will at any time be pleased to let me
hear from you. You will see, Sir, by the return how backward
the Cols, have been in turning out their Men and providing for
them. The Duplin men have at this time neither Cart, pot or any
other necessary" for marching.

I am, Sir, your Excellency's Mo. ob. Servt.,

ALEX. LILLINGTON.
Gov. Caswell.

-318 STATE RECORDS.

COL. JAMES LONG TO GOV. CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Tyrrell County, Jany. 17th, 1780.
Sir :
Agreeable to jour request I have paid some of the Soldiers
their Bounty, and the rest are very uneasy for theirs. The last will
not march 'till they get their Bounty and their back rations. I
should be very much obliged to your Honor to let me know
whether they are entitled to their rations from the day they were
drafted or not. They would have marched and been over the line,
but Col. Spruell told them, as I am informed by the soldiers, if
they did they would never get their Bounty nor their rations,
which put a stop to their March, and now they won't March till
they get their Bounty. I should be very much obliged to your
honor to give me an order on Col. Jos. Spruell, who is Sheriff, for
the money to pay their bounty, and the expense of Mr. Blount, as
I have hired him to come to your Honor's for the order, as they
won't march till they have it. I should have gone to Mr. Skinner's
to have seen whether I could get the money of him, but the Sound
is frozen over, so that there is no passing across.
From your Mo. ob.
& very huml. Servt.,

JAMES LONG, Col.
•Gov. Caswell.

N. B. The first, second and third Drafts have not reed, their
Bounty. It was owing to my not applying to you for it.

J. L.

PRESDT. SAMUEL HUNTINGTON TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, Jany. 18th, 1780.
Sir:
Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed two Acts of
•Congress of the 13th and 14th Inst.

The former containing the regulations adopted relating to pris-
oners of War, whether taken by the Continental Troops, or cap-

STATE RECORDS. 319

tured by the Arms of any particular State, either by sea or Land.
Many difficulties have frequently occurred for want of such a gen-
eral regulation, too numerous to be recited. It is proper to
observe that the first paragraph of the Act, recommending to the
Executive of the several States to transmit with all possible expe-
dition to Genl. Washington the name and rank of all officers and
the number of privates belonging to the Enemy held as prisoners
of War, in each State, and the place they are at, &c., should be
complied with as soon as possible by those States that have any
number of prisoners. The other Act, of the 14th inst., recom-
mending to the Legislature of the several United State to make
provision, where not already made, for conferring like privileges
and immunities on the Subjects of his most Christian Majesty as
are granted to the Subjects and inhabitants of these United States
by the recited Articles in the treaty of Amity and Commerce,
will no doubt be cheerfully complied with by each of the States.

His Most Christian Majesty, as soon as the treaty became known,
published an Edict conformable to that Article, exempting the
Subjects and Inhabitants of these United States from the Droit
d' Aubaine, &c.

I have the honor to be,

With every sentiment of respect,

Your Excellency's hnnil. Servt.,

SAML. HUNTINGTON, Presid.
Gov. Caswell.

CAPT. ROBERT ELLIS TO GOV. CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Wilmington, Jany. 18, 1780.
Sir.
The money being all expended which I reed, to furnish Pro-
visions for the use of Fort Johnston, and a further supply being
necessary, have sent in a Bond signed by Mr. Toomer and myself,
for five thousand pounds currency ; request your Excellency will
please to send a warrant for that sum. Mr. Smith, first Lieut, at
Fort Johnston, has resigned.

I am with, great respect,

Your Excellency's huml. Servt.,

ROBT. ELLIS.

STATE RECORDS.

GEN. JETHRO SUMNER TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Halifax, January 20th, 1780.
Sir:
I have just reed. Orders from Genl. Lincoln to employ such of
the Officers in the Continental Service, now in this State, in
apprehending deserters; this was my instructions to the Colonels
of the different Battalions, that such Officers might be diligent in
taking deserters, on my arriving from the Southward, but have
had very little accounts of their success. The very heavy expense
they must be at, and no money lodged for defraying this duty, I
am rather apprehensive has in some measure been the cause of
the bad success of their. endeavours thus far. I shall (soon after
I see you next week) again write the Colonels commandant of
each Battalion on this head, and I wish, if it was thought con-
sistent, some monies for this service could be ordered in the hands
of the Cols, of the Battalions. The officers may be immediately
set more steady on this duty.

I am, Sir, your very huml. Servt.,

JETHRO SUMNER.

GEN. JOHN BUTLER TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

January 20th, 1780.
Sir:
The Regiment raised in this District for the aid of the Southern
States passed the limits of this State on the 24th day of December
last. A return thereof I have sent enclosed, together with a
general return of the Militia of the District. I have received
advice from the Col. that the men, as they have not received their
Bounty, are very uneasy, and at sometimes are almost ready to
mutiny, insomuch that he has sent back a Captain to receive part
of the Bounty, if possible. I have applied to the Sheriff of this
County, who informed me that he had just advanced all that he

STATE RECORDS. 321

has collected to your draft for purchasing provisions. Under
these circumstances I thought it my duty to inform your Excel-
lency how the matter stands. You will see by the return of the
Regiment that it comes very short of the numbers drafted, tho'
the Captain informs me that he met several small parties on their
March out, so that it is probable it will be augmented to near
three hundred.

I am your ob. Serv't,

JOHN BUTLER.

REV. ADAM BOYD TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Wilmington, 21st January, 1780.
Sir:
Knowing the distress of the Troops, I have just now made a
bargain for four hundred and fifty-seven^ pair of Shoes, on condi-
tion that your Excellency approves of the purchase and will please
to give me an order on the sheriff of New Hanover for the amount,
to be paid out of the taxes, this order to be sent so as to have
the money ready by next Monday week ; and if I cannot comply
with these terms, then the bargain is to be void. Both large and
small buttons being also very much wanted, as there are none
with the clothes, I have agreed on the same conditions for a
quantity of them. The price of shoes is £12 the pair, and of but-
tons 20 dollars the double dozen (that is one dozen large and one
dozen small,) to which is to be added the expense of this Express,
perhaps 60 dollars. I must beg leave to assure your Excellency
that shoes sell here at 40 or 50 dollars the pair, and buttons of
same sort are selling daily at 30 dollars the single dozen, and I
fancy such a quantity of either of those articles cannot be con-
veniently got in time to supply the troops any where else. I
have consulted Col. John B. Ashe, who is the only continental
officer here, and he thinks, as I do, that they will be a great relief
to the Troops. I must farther observe that 1 do not mean to
make any charge for transacting this business, unless it is my
expenses, which cannot be much. Should your Excellency ap-
15—21

322 STATE RECORDS.

prove of it, I hope you will favor me with an order on the sheriff
by this Express, who goes in on purpose. The sheriff has promised
to get me the money in two or three days after receiving your Ex-
cellency's order. Some wagons are returning empty to Halifax,
but I shall prevail on Mr. Toomer to detain one of them 'till I can
receive your Excellency's answer.

Below is an amount of the whole, for which, if your Excellency
thinks proper, I would be glad to receive the order. Had I, or
could I command the. money, I really would most cheerfully ad-
vance it, but few continental Chaplains are so rich.

I have the honor to be, very respectfully, Sir,

Your Excellency's very hum!. Servt.,
Gov. Caswell. ADAM BOYD.

P. S. Shoes, £5480 ; Buttons, £900.

Part or all the Shoes may be got without the Buttons, and the
Buttons without the Shoes. Prices of everything here rise daily,
from the high prices in So. Carolina, and partly from an idea that
at the ensuing Session of Assembly a farther emission of money
will be agreed on. There are several other articles in this Town
which I know are wanted in the brigade, and which I would pur-
chase if I had money, and that may be had by an order on the
Sheriff. Col. Ashe offered the owners of the Shoes an order on a
man who owed him money, and he to trust to the public for pay ;
but the Col's, debtor had a month's credit, and they refused it. I
have got a Soldier from Col. Ashe and a public horse from Mr.
Toomer, so the expense of this express will be less, I hope, than I
mentioned. I have given him for his expenses 40 dollars. I need
not again observe that if I cannot pay the 'money on the last day
of this month the owners of the Shoes will look upon themselves
from their Contract.

Your Mo. ob.

A! B.

STATE RECORDS. 323

HONS. JOHN PENN, THOS. BURKE AND ALLEN JONES TO GOV.
CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, Jany. 21st, 1780.
Sir:

Enclosed is an Extract of Intelligence received through the
most Authentic channel, and may be relied on. The peculiar
interest which our Country has in some part of it determined us
to give the earliest advice in our power to you, her presiding Mag-
istrate, relying on your Arigilance for every thing that can possi-
bly be done to frustrate the designs of the Enemy. We flatter
ourselves that a strict attention even to the most minute move-
ments of the disaffected, which we know you will cause to be kept
up, will prevent the advantages which they hope for from that
ill-judging class of our Citizens and from our Negroes ; and should
they attempt to invade or penetrate any part of our Country we
have no doubt of hearing that the vigor and valor of our people
will be exerted against them with decisive success. But we can-
not help wishing that the scene of action may be forever removed
from our own State, and that the Enemy may be met in their
most distant approach by a force sufficient to give them an Effect-
ual Check. Our apprehensions on the Articles of arms made us
enquire if any succours of that kind could be sent from this place,
but we can derive no hope from the result. Virginia has lately
had an acquisition of five thousand stand, and we doubt not she
will assist us if we shall be eminently threatened. It would give
us great satisfaction to learn that the long-expected supplies of
this kind are arrived, for we should have no fears from such a
force as the Enemy can employ against our particular state if the
Militia were completely armed. The Virginia line, which is on
its March to reinforce the Southern Army, will be, we hope, at
least time enough to come to the relief of Charlestown should it
be invested, at all events to check them in their approach to our
Country.

We are well informed that the German Princes have refused
Troops to Great Britain, and even permission to recruit in their

324 STATE RECORDS.

dominions. We have no other matter of important intelligence to
communicate at present, and for ordinary Occurrences beg leave
to refer you to the enclosed papers.

We have the honor to be,

Your Excellys. ob. Servts.,

JOHN PENN.
THOS. BURKE.
ALLEN JONES.

[Enclosure Above Referred to.]

Sir:
The number of Troops embarqued does not exceed seven thousand,
sailed the 28th December, under convoy of the Russel, Robust,
Europa, Defiance, Reasonable, Roebuck, Renown, Romulus and
Perseus, positively going to Charlestown. Governor Martin, with
a considerable number of North Carolina refugees, and all the
Officers who have been on furlough from Georgia, go with the
Expedition. Five vessels are laden with Ordnance Stores, fifty
Chests of Arms, for the purpose of Arming the Tories and Negroes.
It is said that they are to act on a very different plan from what
they formerly have — I expect, to settle the Country as they con-
quer it, by securing all those whom they may suppose dangerous,
and to give the noted Tories a considerable Command, Clinton to go
home immediately after taking possession of Charlestown, and leave
command to Lord Cornwallis. The most sanguine Tories flatter
themselves that the British Army will be in possession of both the
Carolinas by May next. I sincerely hope that such measures will
be taken as may disappoint their expectations, even to the taking
of Charlestown. If the Garrison destined to defend it will have a
retrospect to Georgia and imitate them, I think they may hold it.
Clinton will make a Vigorous push for it, for I believe he thinks it
necessary to do something to distinguish himself before he returns
to England.

STATE RECORDS. 325

HON. JOHN PENN AND OTHERS TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, January 22, 1780.
Sir:
After closing our letter of yesterday we rec'd information that
Mr. Carter Braxton, of Virginia, has for sale a great number of
Stands of excellent Arms, two thousand some time ago on hand,
and more daily expected. We deem it right to give you this
information, and we beg leave to offer our advice that you cause
them to be purchased on the account of the State, if there shall
appear any danger of an actual Invasion of our Country. We know
you will excuse our Solicitude when affairs are so serious and
important.

We have the honor to be,

With the highest esteem,

Your Excellency's ob. Servs.,

JOHN PENN.
THOS. BURKE.
ALLEN JONES.

COMMISSARY JOSEPH GREEN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Dobbs, 23d January, 1780.
Gov. Caswell.
Dr. Sir :
I am much in distress, and greatly concerned about supplying
Gen. Hogun's Brigade, as I have no money for that purpose, and
they must suffer without I have immediate supply to purchase Corn
and Spirits. Your Excellency's Assistance and advice will be
gratefully accepted by,

Sir, your Mo. ob. huml. Servt,

JOSEPH GREEN.

P. S. I should be glad to know of any news of General Hogun's
Brigade.

326 STATE RECORDS.

GENL. B. LINCOLN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Charles Town, January 24th, 1780.
Dear Sik :

It no longer remains a doubt but that the enemy in Savannah
will be soon, if they are not already, strongly reinforced; for a Brig
was yesterday decoyed into this harbour, from New York to Savan-
nah. She sailed the 26th or 27th Deem, last from the Hook, in
company with 3-74, 3-64, 1-54, 1-40, a frigate with a number of
transports, store ships and other vessels, to the amount of about 90,
bound, as it was said, for Georgia, and that they parted with the
fleet off Cape Hatteras, steering S. S. W., the beginning of this
month. The 10th one ship was seen off this bar, with Hessians on
board, bound for Savannah.

This information so fully ascertains what has been for some time
conjectured, viz., that the enemy mean the subjugation of this State,
that it would be the highest imprudence in us not to guard as much
as possible against the worst. I therefore have to request that your
Excellency would give the most pointed orders to your officers to
collect and march the troops ordered to this State with all possible
dispatch ; for, although large reinforcements have been ordered
from the main Army to reinforce this, yet they may not be expected
in time. Give me leave also to reiterate my wish that, in case of
an attack on this State, a number of men may be kept in arms in
the frontiers of your State to prevent the embodying of the Tories.
I am also to request that every assistance may be given to your
Troops on their march from the Main Army which will facilitate
their speedy arrival.

I am, Dear Sir, With the greatest esteem,

Your Excellency's most obedt. Servant,

B. LINCOLN.

STATE RECORDS. 327

I'HTKi: MAU.KTT 'I'D < ;< ) \' KK.Nl )|{ 1! I'ASIVKLL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Campbelton, 24th Jany., 1780.
Sir:
I have received your Excellency's favor by ray Brother, covering
a Warrant for £5,000. This sum, when I receive it, will scarcely
balance my account, up to the first instant, for moneys already
advanced, and that there requires daily advancements to supply
the Hospital and other Troops here ; besides, there remains unpaid
to sundry persons about this Town from three to four thousand
pounds, for forage and other necessaries to Gol. Lamb's Regiment
and Militia. These people look to me for their money, and that I
cannot pay up their accounts until your Excellency will please to put
me in cash for that purpose. The Beef I barreled last year on the
public account is not near expended ; some part of it now becomes
unfit for using ; whenever the warm weather comes on, it will
require the utmost care, and no small expense. Even then it will
be complained of, as I never found it preferable to cure Beef in this
Country to stand more than one summer. I should think it most
to the interest of the State to have it sold in time. As the Assem-
bly is now called, I am in hopes that house will take some notice
of these matters, and that your Excellency will please to give me
some Orders by Colonel Rowan, as well as to furnish me with the
needful.

I am your Excellency's Mo. ob. Servt.,

P. MALLETT.
Gov. Caswell.

LIEUT. COL. J. B. ASHE TO GOV. CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

New Hanover County, January 24th, 1780.
Sir:
Mr. Boyd and myself having contracted for a parcel of Shoes
and Coat Buttons for the Soldiers, upon Condition your Excellency

328 STATE RECORDS.

approves thereof, (which articles they are much in want of,) the
Bearer waits on you for an order on the sheriff of this County for
money to enable us to comply with the Contract. Mr. Boyd has
acquainted your Excellency with their amount. If, Sir, our Con-
duct meets with your approbation, you will please to despatch the
boy with the necessary draft. Not a syllable of News here.
I am your Excellency's Mo. ob. Servt.,

J. B. ASHE.

GEN. B. LINCOLN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Charlestown, Jany. 28th, 1780.
Dear Sir :
Doctor Hailing will do himself the pleasure to deliver you this.
He came to Philadelphia as a Surgeon to me, (I then needed one,)
but on my getting better and Genl. Ashe wanting a Surgeon, the
Doctor, at my request, joined him and was taken prisoner on the
3d of March at Brier Creek, where he lost his baggage. He is
informed that your State have made a consideration to those under
his circumstances ; if so, give me leave to recommend the Doct.
to the same indulgences, for he joined General Ashe rather from
an expectation of rendering service than any other view. He dis-
charged his duty while with that Corps with attention and judg-
ment. To the Doctor I beg leave to refer your Excellency for the
news of the day.

I am, dear Sir, with great esteem,

Your Excellency's Mo. ob. Servt.,

B. LINCOLN.

STATE RECORDS. 329

COL ARCHD. LYTLETO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Charlestown Neck, Jany. 28, 1780.
Sir:

Colonel Rogers, where I am, was to take charge of the Regi-
ment detached from the Hillsboro Brigade. Being so informed that
he was rendered unable to perform his duty in this Expedition, the
late Assembly omitting to fill the Regiment to which I belong, I
solicited Genl. Butler for the Command of the Regiment, which he
readily granted, first consulting the Officers of the same, to which
they unanimously agreed. The command of the Salisbury and
Hillsboro Drafts and Volunteers has remained with me as yet, Genl.
Lillington not being arrived. Our people are mostly without their
Bounty, all without Tents. I must beg leave to inform your
Excellency that Mr. Ellis's Commissary at Salisbury refused to
issue to the Militia. Had I not as a Continental Officer Ordered
him, we must have been much worse supplied. Nevertheless, we
were far from being so well as we conceived Men in service of their
Country might expect. I was obliged Sundry times to grant Cer-
tificates for provision & forage to the Inhabitants, promising to see
them paid at the next Session of the Assembly. I think it the
hardest part of duty to be obliged to take from good people their
property without having in my power to pay, which must be done
rather than let Soldiers suffer.

As I have not seen General Lillington, have taken the liberty to
enclose a return of the Hillsboro and Salisbury Regiment.
I am your Excellency's Mo. ob. huml. Servt.,

ARCHD. LYTLE.

330 STATE RECORDS.

GENL B. LINCOLN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book ]

Charles Town, January 29th, 1780.

(On Public Service.)
His Excellency Richard Caswell, Esqr., Governor of North Carolina.
Dear Sir :

Since I did myself the honour of addressing your' Excellency,
under the 24th Inst., our frigates have returned from a cruise. By
them I learn that they discovered some ships off Port Royal, and
that their tender saw many others off Tybee. Some of them
appeared to be ships of war. On their return the frigates took two
sloops, part of the fleet which left the Hook the 26th Ulto. They
had about 45 Dragoons on board, wt. 45 Horses and furniture for
them. (All the horses were lost on the passage but two.) From
the prisoners we are informed that the fleet consisted of 140 sail,
bound to Georgia, wt. a large number of troops on board, some say
10,000, and that General Clinton commands in person. Though
we are uncertain as with regard to their exact number and who
commands them, yet that they are in very great force cannot be
questioned, or that the subjugation of this State is their object, to
defeat which depends so much on the exertion of yours that I can-
not help repeating my request that the full number of men ordered
may be sent forward wt. all possible dispatch, and that they may,
if possible, be convinced that too much depends on their present
exertions, and that their own safety and happiness is too nearly
connected wt. the salvation of this State, to justify their refusal to
march to its assistance, whatever small Circumstance of Bounty,
&c., may intervene.

I have the honor to be,

Dear Sir, with the greatest respect,

Your Excellency's most obedient Servant,

B. LINCOLN.

Since closing the above, Mr. Rutledge has returned. By him
I am informed that the common Expresses are so dilatory and
unfaithful that no dependence can be placed in them, and that they
spread wild and groundless reports in the country that the enemy

STATE RECORDS. . 331

are leaving Georgia, &c, so that the necessary exertions are not
made by the people, from a belief that their Services are not needed
here. To prevent any delay at this critical period, & that we may
reap all the advantages of just representation of matters, I have
desired Major Clarkson, one of my family, to become the bearer of
this. He is well acquainted with our real Situation. From his
mouth you will receive a just and impartial account of the affairs
in this State, & all I know of the Enemy's force & situation in
Georgia. If it should be necessary he will call on the Assembly.

I had, a few days since, information from Genl. Rutherford that,
in case of necessity, he would embody 500 Volunteers & march
them to our assistance. The time seems to be fast approaching
when they will be really needed. This kind offer on his part, &
being informed by Mr. Rutledge that he had requested leave from
you to sutler us to call on him, if his services were necessary, with-
out first applying to your-Exccellency, have induced me to send to
him, desiring that he would march as soon as possible with the
troops he proposed.

I am, Dear Sir, Yours,

B. LINCOLN.

ED WD. RUTLEDGE TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Rook. |

Charles Town, Jany. 31st, 1780.
My Dear Sir :
I did myself the pleasure of writing you a Line from George
Town, acquainting you with the arrival of part of the British
Fleet on the Southern Coast. There is every Reason to believe
that their Land Forces are very numerous indeed. By some it is
said Clynton, by others it is said Cornwallis lias the Command. Be
which it may, the Business will be very serious ; they have both
lost reputation in this State, and we may expect that every Effort
will be made to recover it. When the Fate of a country is to be
decided in a single Campaign it becomes a melancholly Considera-
tion, & I hope will justify me in requesting that you will continue

332 STATE RECORDS.

your attention to us, by sending to our Aid, if possible, the whole
number of men that your Assembly voted. If, in addition to them,
a Corps of Volunteers would come to our Assistance with Expedi-
tion (for everything depends on expedition) we should consider it a
most friendly Act indeed. I informed General Lincoln immedi-
ately on my Arrival of your having received his Letters, & that
you would have no objection to his applying to General Rutherford
for such Aid as he could afford, in Consequence of which he will
write immediately to that Gentleman on the Subject. I wish he
may arrive in time. Major Clarkson, who will deliver this Letter,
is of General Lincoln's Family, & will be able to inform you of our
real Situation. He will also tell you how shamefully we have been
deserted by our Ally's naval officers when we most required their
assistance.

With every wish for your happiness,

I am, Dear Sir, with great esteem,

Your affectionate Humble Servt.,

EDWD. RUTLEDGE.

PRESDT. J. RUTLEDGE TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Charles Town, Jany. 31, 1780.
Dear Sir :
Referring you for particulars to Genl. Lincoln's Letter, & to
the Gent, who will deliver it, & this also, I think it necessary to
acquaint you that the Enemy are arrived in very considerable
force, both Land and Naval, from New York to Georgia, & that
great part of them are already actually disembarked in that
State. There is no Doubt that the possession and Conquest of
this are their objects ; I therefore most earnestly request that the
Troops of your State, destined for our assistance, may be sent on,
& that you will afford us what other Aid you can with the utmost
dispatch. I flatter myself that on this trying occasion North
Carolina will exert herself to the utmost. It will be expedient
that a Body of your Men should hover on our Frontiers, & on the
least prospect or Apprehension of an Insurrection amongst our

STATE RECORDS. 333

dissaffected, march in to crush it. I shall trouble you with the
Communication of Intelligence as often as any material arises, but
I entreat that without waiting for any further you will immediately
use your most strenuous Endeavours to reinforce our Army.

I am, with great esteem, Dear Sir,

Your most obedt Servt.,

J. RUTLEDGE.
To His Excellency, Gov. Caswell.

P. S. The 3 French Frigates which have been here some months
lately sailed for France.

JAMES EMMETT TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Campbleton, 6th Feby., 1780.
Sir:

I did myself the honor some time ago to inform your Excel-
lency that I had settled my Forage account with Mr. Mallett ; at
the same time desired to know if such a settlement was satisfactory
to your Excellency, or what other method I might take that would
be more so ; but as I have not been so happy to receive an answer
from you, take the liberty once more to trouble you on the same
head, and should be glad to know if you have any further occasion
for my service in that way, or any other you might think me use-
ful in ; shall always receive your commands with cheerfulness.
The Third Regiment of Light Dragoons, commavrded by Lieut.
Col. Washington, left this for Charleston yesterday morning. We
have a report prevailing here that a Fleet has been seen off the
state of Georgia. If any provision should be wanting this way,
I beg leave to acquaint you that I have put up a small quantity
of about 60 or 70 barrels of Beef & Pork for the House of Mallett,
Emmett and Mallett, which we would gladly dispose of to the pub-
lic, at the market price.

I am, with due respect, Sir,

Your Excelly's ob. Serv't.,

JAMES EMMETT.

334 STATE RECORDS.

HON. JOHN PENN AND OTHER DELEGATES TO GOV. CASWELL.

[Prom Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, February 9th, 1780.
Sir:

You will, before this arrives, have received some resolutions of
Congress for recruiting the Army, a business of the highest impor-
tance at all times, but now peculiarly interesting by reason of the
critical situation of public affairs, which requires the next cam-
paign to be prosecuted with such vigor as may entirely expel the
Enemy from every part of the United States. We are persuaded
that the advantages arising from such decisive success are obvious
to every one in the General Assembly, and scarcely think we have
any occasion to add any other suggestion to excite their most vigor-
ous and expeditious exertions for preparing a formidable force to
take the field as early as possible ; but we cannot suppress an
opinion which we have formed upon good grounds, that the Resto-
ration of peace and the future tranquility of the United States,
and particularly those to the Southward, in a great measure depend
on the complete Expulsion of the Enemy by the operations of the
current year. The proportions of the several States are far from
being estimated by any precise or satisfactory rule ; and you will
perceive a resolution for an equitable adjustment of the expense
attending the raising and providing for such Troops as shall be
found to be beyond the due proportions.

The ideas we have of the circumstances of the State we
have the honor to represent determined us to endeavor to obtain
a resolution for making all the efforts of the States for- raising
men, whether as Regulars or Militia, a common Expense. We
remember the vast sums disbursed by the State, and vast expenses
incurred in calling out the Militia, and in making extraordinary
exertions in a War whose object is common and whose opera-
tions, perhaps, have been less threatening to her than to her
neighbor. We also foresaw that she must make still greater
Exertions in consequence of the Enemy's having pointed their
hostilities principally against the Southern States ; and we deem
it our duty, Especially as doubts were thrown out in Debate, to
take the sense of Congress directly on the question in order
that the General Assembly may be fully informed on a subject
so interesting to their Constituents. We have failed- in our

STATE RECORDS. 335

motion, as you will see by the enclosed Extract from the Journals.
The States who voted against it are very apprehensive of very great
and perhaps unnecessaay expense being the consequence of such a
resolution, were it to have retrospect, but seem to have no material
objection to its future operations. As our State is much interested
in the Restoration operations, we did not choose to move it in that
form without more particular Instructions from the State.
We have the honor to be

Your Excellency's Ob. Servts.,

JOHN PENN.

THOS. BURKE.

ALLEN JONES.

PRESDT HUNTINGTON TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, Feby. 10, 17S0.
His Excellency the Governor of North Carolina.
Sir :

Your Excellency will receive herewith inclosed an act of Con-
gress of the 9th Inst., ascertaining the number of men, exclusive
of Commissioned officers, for the Continental Army the next Cam-
paign to be 35,210, which Congress deem necessary for the service
of the present year, the Quota of each State being specified in the
act.

You will observe that all the men belonging to each state
respectively now in the public service, and whose time of service
does not expire before the last clay of September next, whether
they compose the Battalions in the line of the several States, those
of the additional Corps, including the guards, the artillery and
horse, or the regimental artificers in the Department of the
Quarter Master and Commissary General of military Stores, are to
be credited to their respective States and accounted as a part of
their Quota, and each State is required to furnish the respective
deficiencies of their Quotas, as above stated, on or before the first
day of April next.

You may expect to receive as soon as possible from the Com-
mander-in-Chief or his order an accurate return of the Troops

336 STATE RECORDS.

now in service belonging to the State, which will ascertain the
deficiency to be furnished by the States respectively, agreeable to
the act inclosed.

As the Quotas apportioned to each State may be supposed not
to be exactly just, you will observe Congress have made provision
to pay the Expense any State hath incurred or may incur by fur-
nishing more than their Just proportion of men.

It is recommended to each State respectively, in the strongest
Terms, punctually to comply with this requisition by furnishing
their respective Quotas of men compleat without loss of time.

Many powerful motives, too obvious to need enumeration, con-
spire to urge the propriety, policy and necessity of having a pow-
erful Army ready to take the field early in the Spring. Vigorous
exertions and a respectable Army in the field are the most sure
means to prevent the necessity of another Campaign on the one
hand, or on the other to crown it with the desired success and put
a period to the Contest upon honourable Terms.

I have the honour to be,

With every Sentiment of respect,

Your Excellency's huml. Servt.,

S. HUNTINGTON, President.

GEN ALEX. LILLINGTON TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book ]

Camp near Charlestown, Feby. 12th, 1780.
Please your Excellency.
Sir:
It would be the neglect of Duty in me not to Inform your
Excellency of our Arrival here. After an Excessive cold & hard
March here, I met with Genl. Lincoln's orders at Cleggs Ferry,
over against George Town, to march to the Mills on the Edisto.
By the time we got to Dorchester in our way I had orders to
march down to Charles Town, at which place we arrived the 28th
of last Instant. The troops are in as good health as could be
expected, having lost but one man, who Died at George Town.
We found the officers here encamped with about sixty Men from
the Westward. I think myself very happy in the appointment of
Major Dickson & Major Nelson, and could freely wish your
Excellency would recommend these Gents, to the Assembly if there

STATE RECORDS. 337

should be more Militia sent to the Southward, As I am sure they
will serve cheerfully if leave can be granted them by their Com-
manding officer ; for my part, I cannot think otherwise than to have
some regular officer with the Militia must be a very great advan-
tage to them. Our men have been on hard Duty ever since we
have been here, not less than two li'd or more every Day on
Fatigue. The Inclosed is a general return for your perusal,
wherein you will see, Sir, what Field Officers I had witli me on
our March ; Major Dublin just come to camp. We have men
more or less coming in every Day. General Lincoln was in camp
this morning, and Informed me he had an Express come to him
last night with Information that the British Troops had arrived
with Eight thousand men. I wish we had all our forces collected ;
I think we could be so well prepared for them by the time they
can get here that we could give them a warm reception, I hope.
Sir, wishing this may find you & your good family in perfect
health,

Yr. Excellency's Most obedient Servant,

ALEX. LILLINGTON.

BENJAMIN HAWKINS, ESQ., TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Bath, 14th February, 1780.
Dear Sir :
I have the pleasure of informing your Excellency of my arrival
here with some muskets for this state. I shipped eight hundred
and seventy-eight stand from St. Eustatia. I shall land five hun-
dred stand at Washington; the remainder, which came in another
bottom, will be at Edenton. I could not procure any thing on the
faith of the state, or by barter for provisions or tobacco, as was
expected. They were taught to believe in the West Indies that
a bushel of salt would purchase one hundred weight of tobacco,
and that two and a half a barrel of Pork. While they entertain
this Idea (salt being of little value there) it will be impossible
to barter for more valuable articles, the exchange to be in this
State, as was suggested by some gentlemen in the Assembly. The

STATE RECORDS.

price of tobacco had fallen in the West Indies, about the time of
rny arrival there, owing to the quantity just then imported from
the continent, which, with the advice of Mr. Governor, the conti-
nental agent there, determined me to reship the tobacco in Dutch
bottoms to Europe. He undertook to do it, and advanced for six
hundred of the arms ; the remainder I purchased on my own
credit, on Interest for the State. The arms are very good, and
purchased at the reasonable price of five and a half pieces-of-eight
per stand. Part of the tobacco I shipped was damaged, which
can only be accounted for either by the negligence of the inspec-
tor or the bad state of the warehouses wherein it was stored. We
were apprised of the sailing of the Fleet from New York, which
made me assiduous in getting all the arms I could in St. Eustatia,
as I well knew our situation.

A large supply of arms and Clothing may be had by this from
the West Indies, provided we can make remittances. Three
thousand stand I am offered, and one thousand suits of clothing.

Should the present plan of importing necessaries still continue
to be countenanced by the General Assembly, I shall prepare to
remit as much as possible, tho' I doubt vessels cannot be procured.
Freighting vessels at the present extravagant prices will not be so
advantageous to us as purchasing. If the latter be practicable I
must draw on you for money. I will send you the price current
of articles for the West India market by the next opportunity.

A Continental Brigantine was cut out from Saley (?) by some
British privateers, tho' opposed by the fire from the port. She has
since been demanded, but refused. It was suggested that the
Captain, ashamed, and some of his men went into the fort and
assisted in protecting their vessel. The^ answer of the Gov. of
St. Kitt's to the demand is humorous. He congratulated the Gov.
of Saley on the restoration of the Island, seized by the rebel Amer-
icans. Part of the French Fleet have arrived at Martinique, but
we had no accounts of the Count. Some supposed he had sailed
for Europe, others to South America. We had various reports
from Europe, which as I recollect I send you. The Dutch have
been repeatedly solicited to take part with Britain. They made
it as much as possible. It is said they have given for a reason
that they did not think the intentions of the British ministry to
be to the interest either of Britain or her allies, but manifestly to

STATE KECOEDS. 339

their ruin and discredit ; and therefore, although they were and
are at all times ready to act for the interest of great Britain, yet,
for the reasons before named, they must now declare themselves
neuter and protest against the proceedings of their, the necessary
Allies. This is credited by some in St. Eustatia. They further
report that the Dutch Ambassador has been recalled from the
British Court in Consideration of a demand of some vessels car-
ried into the Texel by John Paul Jones. The Gov. of St. Eusta-
tia imagines that the Dutch will take part with Britain. The
Grand Convention will be at Versailles in April. The King of
Prussia & Empress of Russia have promised their mediation. The
British Fleet are in Torbay, and do not expect to put to sea till
April. John Paul Jones, who sailed from Brest in a fifty Gun
Ship with some frigates, went North about and did infinite dam-
age to the British vessels. He fell in with the convoy from Nor-
way and took the Serapis, a new fifty Gun ship, and the Countess
of Scarborough, of 20 Guns ; engaged the Serapis two hours, and
the whole time they were so near that the Guns touched the oppo-
site vessel. Jones lost one hundred and eighty two men and Pear-
son 109. Jones' ship run in the next day, and he went with his
prize into the Texel, there to right them. Sir Joseph York
demanded them, which was so strenuously opposed by the French
minister that his demand was refused and repeatedly. Jones
was received with every imaginable mark of respect by the Dutch.
I expect the pleasure of seeing your Excellency within a few
days. Excuse the imperfection of my letter.
I am, with due respect, Dear Sir,

Your mo. ob. Servt.,

BENJAMIN HAWKINS.

340 STATE RECORDS.

GEN. GRIFFITH RUTHERFORD TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

February 17th, 1780.
Sir:

I am truly sorry I had not the pleasure of seeing you, but as I
am so circumstanced I hope you will excuse me, for I could not
prevail on my company or any one of them to stay for me.

The situation of our Country is truly alarming. I am blame-
able as well as others in producing the distresses ; but when a Coun-
try is imposed on, as the Westward part of this State is, I think
the Blame not so much. But as the Assembly sits at this time,
the security of our State depends on your Excellency's exertions,
with the advice of your Counsel. The raising of men to send out
of the State, by order of the Gov. and Counsel, is a matter of
doubt. But surely every friend to his Country will readily agree,
be that as it may, and as an individual do entreat yon to send me
such advice to govern my conduct at this alarming time. I have
to acquaint you that Major General Lincoln wrote me a letter,
dated the 30th of January last, requesting that I would endeavor
to raise 500 light horse men, to go and join him as quick as pos-
sible, informing me that Sir Henry Clinton, in company with a
large armament, in order to subdue the Southern States, the
which, I have no doubt, you are acquainted. At the time that I
received his letter I was preparing for the Assembly, not doubt-
ing but that the Assembly would readily agree to send a further
aid to South Carolina. I wrote to nine Counties, requesting that
the field officers should raise one hundred men in each County as
volunteers to go to South Carolina ; I proposed going myself. I
shall now wait your orders. I requested the Cols, to rendezvous
the men the 12th day of March next. Pray, Sir, send me your
orders as quick as you may think necessary, for I am at this time
really distressed at the alarming situation of my Country. There
is one thing I request of your Excellency, that you would omit
signing any grants for land in Burke County, that lies on the Mul-
berry Fork of the middle Creek, or otherwise called Johns River,
or if such Grants are signed I crave that they do not issue until

STATE RECORDS. 341

a further hearing be had, for I do assure you that a great deal of
mischief will be done if grants be given for some Lands in these
parts.

Excuse this imperfect scroll.

I remain your humbl. Serv't,

GRIFFITH RUTHERFORD.

HON. CORN. HARNETT TO HON. THOMAS BURKE.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Poplar Gkove Near Wilmington, )
Dear Sir: February 22nd, 17S0. j

After one of the most fatiguing and most disagreeable journeys
that ever old fellow undertook, I at last arrived at my little Hovel
& had the happiness to find my family in good health. I have
waited some time for some Interesting Intelligence to Communi-
cate to you from the South, to no purpose ; we cannot yet find
that the Enemy have landed in any considerable numbers.
We are informed by a Prize lately taken that the fleet suffered
very considerably by very bad weather, & it is supposed that
many of them bore away for the West Indies. The No. Caro-
lina Troops, under the command of General Hogun, passed the
river at Wilmington three days ago, and it is hoped that they
will be at Charles Towu in a few days. The Virginia Troops
have gone the upper road, and will be there soon after our
Troops. The General Assembly were called together by the
Governor, but made no house. After a number of members had
waited ten or 12 days, they returned home. I am sorry to observe
my Countrymen do not pay that attention to public business
which their Constituents have a right to expect from them — No
taxes laid, tho' the States in general have shewn them so lauda-
ble an example. We are informed Governor Martin intends to
pay us a visit; he is not vet arrived in Cape Fear River. I
hope he will first take a trip to the West Indies to see his
friends in Antigua.

342 STATE RECORDS.

As I passed through Halifax I had the pleasure of hearing
that Miss Eaton was very well. I do not write to Genl. Jones,
as it is expected that you will shew him this scrawl. I hope
to hear from you both very soon. Pray send me some Papers.

Mrs. Harnett joins me in most respectful Compliments to Mrs.
Burke, Mrs. Vining & Miss Vining, also Miss Hart, & remember
me kindly to Mrs. Jones & her neices. You will be pleased to tell
Miss Vining I hope to be informed by the next Post that she is
married to a man deserving of so sweet-tempered & so accom-
plished a Young Lady. I shall always remember with great pleas-
ure the happy hours spent in the Company of Mrs. Vining & her
daughter. I must beg you to make my Compliments to all my
acquaintances in Congress, Your Secretary, Mr. R. Morrier, Mr.
Peters & their ladies.

I am, Dear Sir,

Your affectionate friend & Obedt.

CORN. HARNETT.

Mrs. Burke has no doubt got well over the small-pox.
To the Honble. Thos. Burke Esqr.

Will you please to inquire of the Commissioners of the Lottery
about the 4 Tickets purchased by me in the fall of 1778 ? I have
lost the Tickets, and others are concerned with me, which makes
me exceedingly anxious about them.

THOMAS OGDEN, ESQ., TO GOV. R. CASWELL.

[Prom Executive Letter Book.]

New Been, 23rd February, 1780.
Sib :
By opportunity of Doctor Pasteur, I beg leave to trouble your
Excellency for a Commission, for a letter of mark for the Sloop
Betsey, Capt. Ishol Tinker; but as the number of guns and men
are not at this time ascertained, if you could indulge us so far as
to leave those two articles Hank I will fill them up myself and
execute the bonds agreeable thereto, which shall be lodged with

STATE RECORDS.

Mr. Cogdell, or sent up to Kingston, whichever you will please to
direct.

I am, Sir, with due respect,

Your Excellency's ob. humbl. Servt.,

THOMAS OGDEN.

PETER HALLETT, ESQ., TO GOV. R. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Hillsborough, February 23rd, 1780.
Sir:
I have your Excellency's favor of the 12th Inst, before me, and
also acknowledge the receipt of the warrants, amounting to £20,-
000, altho' I am apprehensive that a small part of that sum can
be collected at present. I will undertake to supply the Troops
as you mentioned, or at least to superintend and account and
settle for all monies, but that I must have one person at Camp-
bleton, another here, and another on Peedee, besides one person
to issue; the three former, will be Mr. Porterfield, my Brother and
Mr Tul loch. This, I think, will be the most regular way to do
the business; but unless your Excellency can give me the strong-
est hopes of supplies of money, as occasion will require, I could
wish not to meddle with the matter. At Campbleton is about
80 Bbls. Pork and about 140 to 160 Bbls. old Beef of public
stores, besides what pork and Beef I have put up on my own
account, which may be turned into the public stores, amounting
to about 100 Bbls. As to flour and corn, I believe it will be very
scarce in that quarter. It must be boated up the River to Hills-
boro. I have from 60 to 80 Bbls. Beef and Pork, exceedingly
good; 20 Bbls. flour, 100 Bbls. Corn. A plenty of the latter may
be had by waggoning 25 to 30 miles. I should suppose that
near the Chevanes, on the River, and on the Boundary line, if
that is your Excellency's meaning, would be the place for an
Encampment. At that place, or within six miles, are three Mills,
and in the midst of a Corn Country, and where either water or
land carriage is good. Com hist week was twenty dollars per
bushel there. As for meat kind. I expect it will not be easy

344 STATE RECORDS.

to come at; and whatever is done that way will require imme-
diate payment, as most or all must be brought out of the South
State. The Bearer hereof will return by way of Campbleton,
and your orders to my Brother or Mr. Porterfield respecting
Peedee stores will be immediately put into execution. I bave
accordingly advised tbem. In two weeks from this day I will be
in Campbleton, and in case nothing is required before then I
shall be present. In the meantime I have desired all the Corn
and flour to be purchased in and about that' place, altho' I
have but little hopes without money ; £20,000, even were it in
cash, would not do much. The provisions of my own, already
mentioned, would exceed that sum. Any sum you please to hand
the bearer will come safe. If your Excellency is sure of money in
a short time, and think it is absolutely necessary that these pro-
visions should be laid in on Peedee without delay, I will either go
or send over and purchase as far as my credit will extend. In that
case a few small warrants may do, and your Excellency's orders to
Justices and others to lend their assistance will strengthen my
credit in the South State. As to Hay or fodder at either place,
it is not to be had on- any terms whatever.

I am your Excellency's mo. ob. humbl. Servt.,

P. MALLET.T.

PRESDT. J. RUTLEDGE OF S. C, TO GOV. CASWELL*

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Chaklestown, Feby. 25th, 1780.
De. Sie :
This will be delivered by Mr. Kinlock, one of the Delegates of
this state, who is on his way to Congress. He will give you the
fullest information respecting the force and object of the Enemy
now in this state, so that it is unnecessary for me to do so. I will
therefore only request your attention to the representations which
he will lay before you.

And am, with much esteem, Dr. Sir,

Your mo. ob. servt.,

J. EUTLEDGE.

STATE RECORDS.

J. GUION, ESQ., TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

New Bern, Feby. 28th, 1780.
Dear Sir :
Messrs. Williams & Fulford have brought from So. Queay 121
Bars of iron for you, which I have received from them, and have
put in Store of Col. Leech.

Mr. Williams paid 150 Dollars for the storage and delivery, &c,
of the Iron. The receipt for the same you may have at any time
necessary, as urgent business requires my presence in Onslow the
next week, which will prevent my attending the Council at the
time appointed.

I am, Dear Sir, with the greatest respect,

Your mo. ob. Servt.,

J. GUION.

BAZELL SMITH, ESQ., TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

New Bern, Feby. 29th. 1780.
To his Excellency Gov. Caswell, Esqr.

I have been honored with your Commission as Lieut. Col. of
the Craven Militia for some time ; it is not convenient for me to
continue. Wishing to be otherwise disposed than a Military turn,
beg leave to resign, with which intent enclosed is my commis-
sion.

From, Sir, your faithful ob. humbl. Servt.,

BAZELL SMITH.

JAS. GREEN, ESQ., TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Clear Springs, Feby. 29th, 1780.
Sir:
I reed, your Excellency's favor by Mr. Tillery, and inform your
Excellency the Loan office is not in Cash to Comply with any

346 STATE RECORDS.

part of your request, having paid away all the monies I had reed,
on Loan (exclusive Congress's Warrants) to discharge the Indents
issued for the April and May money. I have in my possession
$25,000 dollars, belonging to myself and some Gentlemen in the
West Indies, which I send to yon by Mr. Tillery on certain
Conditions, and which I beg may not be made use of unless
those conditions may suit, ( as I have been at great pains to col-
lect the Continental money, and for more than half of it gave 2
per cent, in exchange,) to-wit, your Excellency's warrant in my
favor drawn on either of the public Treasurers at 10 per cent,
advance on the sum, to be paid in Indents issued from the Loan
Office, by which means I may again in time get the Continental
money. I hope this proposition may not be thought ungenerous,
when I inform your Excellency I can get 20 per cent, for six
months, payable in State money. If you conclude to take it, your
warrant will be for £11,000 ; if you should decline, pray keep the
money for me,

And oblige, Dr. Sir,

Your ob. Servt..

JAS. GREEN, Jr.

JOHN LILLINGTON, ESQ., TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

1st March, 1780.
Sir :

I send your Excellency by Express a packet this day received
from mj' Father, with a request to send it on without delay. My
Father informs me the Enemy are landed eight thousand strong
at Savannah, and that he expects an active Campaign ; doubt not
but he hath made you acquainted with particulars. I have
enclosed your Excellency a news paper, which, from the scarcity
of them, may afford you something novel. Be obliging enough
to return it tor the perusal of my friends in this neighborhood.

I have premised the Bearer, James Doty, that you will satisfy
him for his trouble in riding Express. The difficulty of procur-

STATE KECOEDS.

ing men to do public business of this kind hath compelled me to-
make this promise.

I am, with the greatest esteem,

Your Excellency's Very humbl. Servt.,

JOHN LILLINGTON.

COMMISSARY CHARLES JEWKES TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Wilmington, March 1st, 1780.
Sir :
Enclosed I have the honor to transmit to your Excellency a
letter from Brigadier Genl. Lillington ; every thing respecting the
Troops under his command no doubt he has made you acquainted
with. As to my being continued Commissary to his Brigade after
it has marched beyon the limits of our State, it was found imprac-
ticable, as Mr. Thos. Rutledge has the appointment of Commissary
General for the Southern Department to all Troops who aie in the
service of the United States ; therefore those Troops were undoubt-
edly considered as such. Of course I was obliged to give them up
to him, tho' I can assure you, had I not been with them, they must
have suffered, especially with respect to forage, as there was not any-
thing in that way provided. Since my absence from home there
has been issued to Troops marching through Wilmington to join
Genl. Lillington provisions and forage to amount of near
£10,000 and not one shilling in hand, your warrant for £5,000,.
and the one yon were so obliging as to send since my absence for
£0,000, neither of which has yet been paid, nor do I know when
they will. Your Excellency can be no stranger to provisions being
a ready money article; therefore you must be convinced that such
Bums us those to be advanced without knowing when I am to be
reimbursed must be a real injury. At this time I have by me a
considerable quantity of Beef, Pork, Rice & Flour, as well as
rough Rice. Should the Army now to be ordered out as a further
aid to South Carolina, march through Wilmington, or Rendez-
vous here, I will with pleasure furnish them with every thing
they may be in want of, provided your Excellency, with your

348 STATE RECORDS.

privy Council, will please to fall on some plan how I am to be
furnished with money.

I have the honor to remain,

Your Excellency's mo. ob. humbl. Servt.,

CHARLES JEWKES.
Gov. Caswell.

P. S. by return of the Express should be much obliged to your
Excellency for a few lines in reply.

GENERAL B. LINCOLN To GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Charles Town, March 3rd, 1780.
Dear Sir :
I was yesterday favoured with your Excellency's favour of the
16th Ultimo. Thestrictest attention will be paid to the supplies,
agreeable to your recommendation. I think that every exertion
should be made for the relief of this Town, and not one moment
should be lost in marching the Troops with all possible dispatch
to its assistance. For little succour have we received from this
State, or may we expect to receive, for the southern parts of it are
invaded by the Enemy, and threatened with being plundered by
the Tories, which keeps the Militia in that quarter at home, under
a pretence at least of Guarding their families and securing their
property. In another part, near the centre of the State, the people
are in general disaffected, and the friendly are insufficient to
restrain the unfriendly. The upper parts of the State are obliged
to supply a very considerable force for the protection ot themselves
and the State of Georgia from the incursions of the Indians and
others. The eastern parts of the State have GeorgeTown and the
sea coast to guard from the detached and plundering parties.
Thus you will observe, Sir, that if we expect any considerable
force brought in from the Country we shall probably be disap-
pointed, notwithstanding the exertions of the Executive to this pur-
pose, which are evidenced by the inclosed proclamation.

STATE RECORDS.

I am informed that your people can be supplied with cartridge
boxes ; I wish that matter might be attended to. We can give one
thousand stand of arms more than have been given to your Militia
now here. The Enemy have taken post on James Island, and are
throwing up Batteries on it, one where Fort Johnson stood ; they
mean hereby either to annoy our shipping or to cover their own,
should they be able to get into the harbour, perhaps both. From
some parts of the Island they can reach the Town with their shots
and shells, but the distance is very considerable. They have not
strolled* far into the Country, though they have a post at Stono on
the Main. We are so superior to. them in Cavalry that it is hazard-
ous for them to do it.

I have the honour to be,

With the highest Esteem,

Your Excellency's most obedt. Servant,

B. LINCOLN.

P. S. A late insurrection near the centre of this State, in which
some lives were lost, and the threats thrown out by the insurgents,
are additional arguments to those above hinted to shew the neces-
sity of early aid from your State.

B. L.

His Excellence Gov. Caswell

PRES'T J. RUTLEDGE OP S. C. TO GOV. R. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Charles Town, 5th March, 17S0.
Dear Sir :
Three days ago I had the pleasure of receiving your favour of
the 16th Ulto. General Lincoln tells me that he writes to you
fully by this opportunity respecting the situation of the Enemy in
this State. I will, therefore, only add that about the twenty.
second Ulto. a number of Tories in the North-West part of the
Country, about the Forks of the Edisto and Saltkehatchie, sud-
denly embodied and committed several Murders and Robberies. I
have ordered a party after 'em ; some are taken, and I hope the
rest will soon be killed or apprehended and brought to justice.

350 STATE RECORDS.

But I am not without apprehensions of a formidable Body collect-
ing in another part of the State, unless restrained by fear from
your quarter. I therefore earnestly request that you will be
pleased to give immediate orders that the whole Force which you
speak of in your Letter above mentioned, including the troops
under General Rutherford, take Post as soon as possible at the
place where Col. Richardson encamped in December, 1775, known
by the name of Snow Camp, (so called from the Snow which fell
at the time he was encamped there,) on Deerskin Creek, the
waters of Enoree, in the Fork of Broad and Saludy Rivers.- There
they may be well supplied with provisions, will be in the centre
■of the disaffected, and be able not only to awe them and prevent
their doing mischief, but assist us in compelling them to do their
Duty to the State, & reinforce us here, if necessary.
I am, with great regard and Esteem, Dear Sir,

Your most Obedt. Servant,

J. RUTLEDGE.
P. S. I can hear nothing of the Virginians whom we expected
nnder Generals Scott and Woodford. If in No. Carolina, pray
hurry them hither, & give them every assistance which may facil-
itate their March.
His Excellency Richard Caswell, Brig. Genl., of No. Carolina.

CLEMENT NASH TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Dick's Feket on Dan Rivee, i

in Pittsylvania County, Vieginia, >

Tuesday Night, March 6th, 1780. )

May it Please Youe Excellency :
The President of Congress charged me in a particular manner,
among a number of dispatches, with the enclosed letter for your
Excellency, which I was directed to hand or forward yon by a
quick and safe conveyance. I fully intended having the honor
of presenting it myself, but after I left Philadelphia circum-
stances obliged my rout through Richmond, in Virginia, where I

STATE RECORDS. 351

should meet with the Troops on their march Southwardly, com-
manded by B. Genl. Woodford, to whom I had immediate public
business. From that place, to have fallen into the lower road
would oblige me to make my stay from Georgia (on whose busi-
ness I was ordered to Congress) much longer than it was proper.
I have therefore lodged the letter in the care of Col. James Saun-
ders, whom I have wrote pressingly to forward it by all dispatch,
which I hope will reach you .as soon as possible. Excessive bad-
ness of weather, with the great floods, unavoidably stopt me a
few days on the road in Maryland. I am hurrying on to Augusta
in Georgia, with all possible hurry, having Express to the Gov-
ernor of So. Carolina and Georgia, also to Gens. Lincoln and
Mcintosh, with a number of others.

I am your Excellency's mo. ob. Servt.,

CLEMENT NASH.

PRESDT. SAML. HUNTIXHTON TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, March 6th, 17S0.
Sir:
Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed an act of Con-
gress of this day, requesting the Governors of Virginia, North
and South Carolina, to use their utmost exertions in filling up
their Continental Battalions, and expediting their Junction with
the Southern Army, and in the mean time supplying their
deficiency with Militia. It is hoped and expected that, in the
present situation of affairs in Georgia and South Carolina, no
exertions will be wanting in the neighbouring states to afford
them all necessary assistance. I hope the Virginia and North
Carolina Continental Troops, with the Corps of Dragoons which
Congress have ordered to join the Southern Army, may arrive
before the Enemy shall be able to do much harm in that quarter.
I have the honor to be,

With the highest respect,

Your Excellency's liunih]. Servt.,

SAM. HUNTINGTON, Pivsdi.

352 STATE RECORDS.

COL. ROBT. ROWAN TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Campbleton, March 7th, 1780.
Sir:

Agreeable to the instructions received from your Excellency at
New Bern, I purchased and delivered to the Troops, on their
arrival at "Wilmington, Rum, Sugar & Coffee, as much as the
Genl. thought necessary, and nearly to the amount of the sum
you procured me for that purpose. I likewise purchased for the
use of the Brigade sundry Goods, particularly linens, with which
the officers were well pleased, being much in want of shirts.
Cloth of a proper Color for Regimentals, Hats and Boots they
are still much in need of, but expect that I will proceed immedi-
ately to Charlestown to procure these articles for them. No
doubt if the Council has done anything on that head your Excel-
lency will give me the necessary instructions. A large quantity
of Goods has lately arrived in Charlestown ; such another oppor-
tunity may not be a great while.

1 purchased from Major Walker at Wilmington Goods to the
amount of £11,000 in part pay of whicli I gave him a warrant
for £8,000. Your Excellency will please send me a small warrant
for the balance, both of which the Sheriff of Brunswick has
engaged to take up. On my return from Wilmington, I reed,
from the Sheriff of Bladen £8,000, which the warrant I gave
Major Walker was first intended ; you will please, Sir, send me
another to replace it. It will also be necessary that I should
have one or two of eight or ten thousand each in my hands, as I
shall be in constant want of Cash for the service.

My little step son waits on'your Excellency with this letter. I
procured a small public horse from the Quarter Master, which I
am apprehensive will not be able to bring him back. Shall take
it as a favor, Sir, if you will give him an order on Mr. Tillery for
a better.

I have the honor to be, Sir, with great respect,

Your Excellency's mo. ob. Servt.,

ROBT. ROWAN.

STATE RECORDS. 353

GEN. ISAAC GREGORY TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Camden County, 8th March, 1780.
Sir:

Col. Thomas Hervey being drafted to march the Militia that
was drafted in July and December last, he being in such a bad
state of health at present it is out of his power to march with
them, and he is very desirous to do every thing in his power, hath
employed Mr. Benj. Dillen a substitute in his place. If he meets
with your Excellency's approbation, he, the said Col. Hervey,
desires you will Commission him accordingly. I am sorry the
Militia that was drafted in this Brigade hath delayed marching in
the manner they have done. I have done every thing in my power
to hasten them on. There is more trouble with the officers that
is drafted to march them than the men ; I have understood your
Excellency hath been troubled with some of them. I have never
had it in my power to make a return of this Brigade in the man-
ner it ought to be, for want of a proper return from the Cols, of
the different Regiments, nor of the drafted Militia, but I do
expect a return in a very short time from them all. As soon as I
get them I shall send them.

I am, Sir, your mo. ob. Servt.,

ISAAC GREGORY.
Gov. Caswell.

P. S. Col. Hervey was drafted about 8th or 10th of Dec,
last.

COL. R. COGDELL TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

New Bern, 10th March, 1780.
Dear Sir :
I have sent by Col. Luck some Dispatches which last week came
into the Post office, by post. Some Gentlemen who have arrived
here lately from Charlestown confirms reports we have had that
15—23

354 STATE RECORDS.

about 1,500 English Soldiers are landed on James Island, Johns
Island and Stono, three divisions I suppose; that Charlestown forces
are 4,000 strong, and every day expecting an attack. The town is in
high spirits. The famous Mr. Hamilton Ballard has been detected
and brought back to Charlestown, after passing all the posts,
except one, on his way to the British Army, assisted by two
negroes, whom he had prevailed on by specious promises of Freedom
and Reward to carry him through all the difficult posts in Alanoe (?).
The negroes beginning to reflect, and taking their own affair under
mature consideration, came to a Resolution to betray him at the
last Sentry, and pretended to want very much to go on shore to a
Spring of water, near the last post, and did so, and there betrayed
htm, and he was apprehended with nil his plans of the works
round Charlestown and notes of the weakest parts of their Forti-
fications, &c, &c; carried him to Charlestown jail. If these things
are facts, I hope ere this he is hanged. I have paid Mr. Stanley
near 18,000 Dollars, by your Excellency's request, in part of 20,000;
shall be obliged to your Excellency to send the- warrant by Col.
Luck. I hope you and family are well. This morning Mr. James
Green has publicly offered his services \under his hand) to the
freeholders and freemen of New Bern to represent them in the
General Assembly the next Session.

I am, dear Sir, your oh. Servt.,

R. COGDELL.

PRESIDENT J. RUTLEDGE OF S. C. TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Chas. Town, March 14th, 1780.
Gov. Caswell.
Dear Sir :
You will receive herewith a Letter from the Honble. Major
General Lincoln, &, as he will give you every necessary informa-
tion respecting the Enemy's and our Situation, it is unnecessary
for me to do so. I will therefore only add my wish that you w'd
order the Troops intended from your State for our Aid to proceed,
according to the orders which the General now sends, instead of

STATE RECORDS. 355

taking the route I lately went, & taking Post at the Snow Camp,
and that yon will use your utmost Efforts to forward all Aid you
can as soon as possible.

I am, with great Esteem, Dr. Sir,

Yr. most ohedt. Servt.,

J. RUTLEDGE.

GEN. B. LINCOLN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[Prom Executive Letter Book].

Head Quarters, Charles Town, March 14th, 17S0.
Dear Sir :
Nothing very particular has taken place since my last. The
Enemy have been attempting to get their ships over the Bar, but
while the tides were up the winds were contrary, which prevented
their getting in. At the full of the moon, there will be another
opportunity. They have erected a Battery opposite to the west
part of the town, at Wappoo Creek on the North Side, but the
distance from town is so great that little is to be apprehended
from it. I daily expect them before the lines on the north part
of the town.

As the people in the back parts of the Country seem to be
quiet, as the time for which some of your troops engaged will soon
expire, and as I hear nothing of the remainder of three thousand
first ordered, I have wrote to the officer commanding the two
thousand directed to assemble near the boundary of this State,
and have requested hiin to march to our assistance. I wish to see
the remainder of the three thousand & this garrison fully manned,
for I am convinced on the salvation or loss of it depends the sal-
vation or loss of the State, and with it yours may suffer.
I am, Dear Sir, with the highest esteem,

Your Excellency's most obedient Servant,

B. LINCOLN.
His Excellency Governor Caswell.

STATE RECORDS.

PREST. SAM HUNTINGTON TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, March 14th, 1780.
Sir:
Enclosed your Excellency will receive a Recommendation of
Congress to the several States to set apart Wednesday, the 26th
of April next, as a day of fasting, humiliation and Prayer.
With great respect,

I have the honor to be,

Your Excellency's humbl. Servt.,

SAM. HUNTINGTON, Presdt.

PETER MALLETT TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Campbleton, March 14th, 1780.
Sir:
I was honored with Your Excellency's favor of the 25th Feby.r
covering sundry warrants to amount of £30,000, and I am very
sorry to inform you that our success in raising money from them
is very poor. However, I shall take every step possible to procure
provisions, both at this place and P. D., in hopes that the
Assembly will make me good for what moneys I advanced of my
own for that purpose. If it is possible to forward from five to ten
thousand pounds per bearer in Continental bills, it would be very
acceptable at P. D. My only fear is the want of money in that
department. Forage is exceedingly scarce here ; flour, bread and
rice — I have already procured suflicient to last to Hailey's.
I am Your Excellency's mo. ob. humbl. Servt.,

P. MALLETT.

STATE RECORDS. 357

GEN. JOHN BUTLER TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Hillsboeo, 15th March, 1780.
Sir:
This day the Drafts from the several Counties in the District is
ordered to Rendezvous here. They are not all gathered yet.
I hope to be able to inarch them to Charlotte before the first of
April. The bearer brings yon a packet from Congress.
I am, with due regard,

Your ob. Servt.,

JOHN BUTLER.

COL. ROBERT ROWAN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Campbleton, 15th March, 1780.
Sir:

Your Excellency's favor, with the warrants on the Treasury,
came safe to hand.

When I was at Kingston you informed me, Sir, that the Militia
were to Rendezvous at this place, in consequence of which I
ordered the Tents, Cartridge boxes and Bayonet belts to be put
on board a boat at Wilmington and sent here, and had it not been
for Parson Boyd taking upon himself to order her back again
when she had got half way up, thinking there were Stores on
board that the Brigade would be in want of, the boat would have
been here long since. However, 1 am still in hopes of his getting
up in time, as it is two weeks since she left Wilmington. I fancy
there will be enough of Cartridge boxes and Bayonet belts for the
present occasion. There are also several Tents and a great num-
ber of Flints.

I have now in my employ Archibald Henry, a Shoemaker, and
James McCraken, a Tailor. They were both drafted on last Fri.
day. I was hurried to get some work done to send forward to
the Brigade. It is really difficult to get Tradesmen without pay-

358 STATE EECOKDS.

ing them most extravagantly. These two men I hired on good
terms, some time before the Drafts, but could not prevail on the
Colonel to excuse them. I fancy your Excellency has that power,
and should be exceedingly glad of a line for that purpose.
I have the honor to be, with great respect,

Your Excellency's mo. ob. Servt.,

KOBT. KOWAN.

COL. JAMES KENAN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Duplin, March 16th, 1780.
Sir:
According to promise, I am to inform your Excellency that I
am to go with the Militia to So. Carolina. I did not attend the
draft at Wilmington for the Major, nor have I yet heard who was
drafted from this district. I shall be much obliged to you to
inform me who is Lieut. Col., and when yon think the Militia
from New Bern District will march ; my men from this County
will march with them to Cross Creek. If you have any new orders
for me, you'l please to send them by the bearer hereof.
I have the honor to be,

Your Excellency's mo. ob. humbl. Servt.,

JAS. KENAN.
Gov. Caswell.

P. S. Please to let me know what General goes.

COL. JAMES KENAN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Duplin, March 19th, 1780.
Dear Sir :
I received your favor of the 16th inst. It gives me real pleas-
ure to find that my taking the Command of the Militia to South
Carolina meets your Excellency's apposition, and be assured, Sir,
I shall do everything belonging to my duty that can be expected

STATE KECOKDS.

from an undisciplined officer. I am exceedingly happy to find
that I am commanded by General Caswell, whose abilities will do
honor to the officers and men under his command.

I have sent a wagon for the muskets, Bayonets, &c, according
to your request. Please to send one Cartridge Box and Bayonet
properly in fix, as it will be a pattern for us to have the others
done in the same way. It will be necessary to have a few pounds
of powder to clean the inside of the Guns, besides what I have.
I am in great want of a Marquee or some kind of Shelter from
the weather. I have sent a Cart to Wilmington for Tents for the
men. My Militia comes iu very slow. A number, I am told,
swear they will not go; those I will send after and bring in, if
possible. A list of the whole men drafted I enclose you ; there
are five or six that are discharged, not being able to do any duty
whatsoever.

Should your Excellency have received any news that you are at
large to communicate, please to let me know it.

I have the honor to be your Excellency's

Mo. oh. & very humbl. Servt.,

JAS. KENAN.

PREST. SAM. HUNTINGTON TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, March 20th, 17S0.
Sir:

Your Excellency will receive herewith enclosed an Act of Con
gress of the 18th Inst., calling upon the several States to bring in
the Continental Currency by monthly .taxes, or otherwise, as shall
best suit their respective circumstances in proportion to the
Quotas assigned to each State by the resolution of the 7th of
October, 1775, and making provisions for other Bills to be issued
in lieu thereof under the restriction and regulations iu the act.

This act is the result of much labor ami deliberation, as the
happiest expedient that could be adopted to extricate these States
from the embarrassments, of a fluctuating medium, and at the
same time in some measure afford the necessary means for sup-
porting the ensuing campaign. Von will readily perceive the

STATE RECORDS.

importance of this measure, and the indispensable necessity of
unanimity in the States in conforming thereto.

It is requested that there may be no delay in taking this act
under consideration, and that the Assembly, if not sitting, may
be convened as soon as possible for that purpose, and that the
Laws that may be enacted in pursuance thereof be transmitted to
Congress without delay. The new Bills will be struck under the
direction of the Board of the Treasury and sent to the several
States in due proportion.

You have also enclosed an act of Congress of this day, recom-
mending the revision of such laws as may have been passed, mak-
ing the Continental Bills a Tender in Discharge of Debts, &c,

I have the honor to be,

With every sentiment of esteem and respect,

Your Excellency's ob. Servt.,

SAM. HUNTINGTON, Presdt.

GEN. THOS. EATON TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Tarboeo, March 21st, 1780.
Sir:

Enclosed is a return of the Drafts, agreeable to your Excel-
lency's last orders, and I natter myself you will not find so many
Delinquents as you may reasonably expect, adverting to the
former Drafts.

The Delinquency of the July and November orders hath been
owing to a variety of causes, first, that the two field officers
who were appointed to take* command failed to march ; another
cause, that in some Counties so many officers have taken Shelter
under the act of Assembly by hiring that there are not officers to
transact the business incident to a Draft. In Northampton in
particular they had but two Captains, and so great is the indiffer-
ence towards the cause, even among the officers of the Militia,
that you will scarcely believe me when I tell you, altho' I have
repeatedly required my officers to make a return of the former
Drafts, yet cannot procure them to forward on, nor should I be
able at present to send on these, had I not have put myself to

STATE RECORDS. 361

more than common trouble ; however, I am determined for the
future to proceed with all the rigour (and more in some cases)
that the law will admit of. I hope I shall have it in my power
to send you a return by the sitting of the Assembly; until I am
contradicted by you I shall proceed to return all Deserters that
come within my knowledge to Genl. Sumner. Since I began my
letter I find it will not be in my power to send you the return of
the Franklin Militia, as they have failed to appear at the place of
Rendezvous.

I remain, your Excellency's very humbl. Servt.,

THOS. EATON.

JONTH. BURRALL ESQ., TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Pay Office, Philadelphia, March 21st, 17S0.
Sir:
A warrant on your Excellency for nine hundred thousand Dol-
lars was issued by Congress on the 16th Inst., payable to my order,
which sum is to be transmitted to Joseph Clay, Esqr., Paymaster
General for the Army under the command of Genl. Lincoln, for the
use of the Military Chest in that Department, and I was informed
by the Board of Treasury that there was not a possibility of there
being a sufficient sum in the Treasury of your State to answer it
at present. I have endorsed the warrant and sent it to Mr. Clay,
and must beg your Excellency to give him or Genl. Lincoln the
earliest information wlieu the money or auy part of it may be
obtained.

I have the honor to be,

Your Excellency's mo. ob. Servt.,

JONTH. BURRALL,
Assist. Paymt. Genl.

STATE RECORDS.

PETER MALLETT TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Campbleton, March 24, 17S0.
Sir:

I have received your Excellency's favor of Inst, per Mr. Graves.
I cannot avoid mentioning my distressed situation for money, and
which daily increases by means of the Continental Troops from
Virginia passing this place. My exertions for their supplies have
not been a little, and my advancement in money out of my own
Desk is not a small sum in every department. For other particu-
lars I must refer you to Mr Green.

If the Militia are detained a week longer, they may possibly be
supplied with forage, but at present there is none, nor will there
be any until it be Boated up the River. They will be furnished
with provisions here, I believe, as well as expected. In case they
come about the 30th it will be necessary that they impress wagons
or Carts in Duplin to last them four or five days' forage after they
arrive here.

I shall daily be in expectation of a sum of money being for-
warded me.

I am, your Excellency's mo. ob. humbl. Servt.,

P. MALLETT.

GEN. B. LINCOLN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Charlestown, March 25th, 17S0.

Dear Sir :

The time expired yesterday for which the greatest part of your
Militia engaged to serve. They could not (a few excepted) be
prevailed on to continue longer, tho' the Governor offered them
for three months a bounty of a suit of clothes and three hundred
dollars. Those whose time expires on the 6th of April claimed
their discharges also, but the state of our force forbade our grant-

STATE RECORDS.

ing the request. I hope your people will soon arrive to our aid.
The Enemy have got a number of their ships over the Bar and
anchored them in Five Fathom Hole ; we expect them up the first
wind. Their Army is on James Island, and on the main west of
Ashley River, as far up as Drayton Hall, thirteen miles above this
Town. We expect them every day before our lines. We are in
hopes of keeping open with the Country a communication by
Cooper River.

I have the honor to be, Dr. Sir,

With the greatest respect,

Your mo. ob. Servt.,

B. LINCOLN.

COMMISSARY JOSEPH GREEN TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Wayne, 29th March, 1780.
Dk. Sir:

Enclosed is a letter to your Excellency from Mr. Mallett, which
he desired me for to forward.

Genl. Woodford's Brigd. reached Campbleton the 22nd Inst,
about 12 o'clock. The whole crossed by twelve next day and
matched the same day about six or seven miles. I am in hopes they
will soon be at Charlestown, as they march about twenty miles a
day, when no ferry to hinder them. Your Express to Genl.
Rutherford I forwarded, but understand lie had marched. I made
out for Genl. Woodford's Brigd. better than I expected with pro-
visions ; the article of forage is exceedingly scarce, and I fear they
will not be able to supply the Train of Artillery and Baggage
horses men with a sufficient quantity of Corn. That article is from
twelve to fifteen pounds per bushel, and not to be had. Genl.
Woodford informed me in about fifteen days after he marched
there was fifteen hundred Militia to follow him, and the remainder
of Genl. Scott's Brigade.

I am in hopes your Excellency will be pleased to lay my dis-
tressed situation before the Legislature of this state, and if possi-

364 STATE EECOEDS.

ble that I may be supplied with cash. I am obliged to give at
least 25 per cent, more for every article I purchase on credit than
it might be had at if I was in cash for that purpose.
I am, with esteem, Dr. Sir,

Your Excellency's ob. humbl. Servt.,

JOSEPH GEEEN.

COL. GEORGE LITTLE TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Hertford County, 30th March, 1780.
Mat it Please Your Excellency :
In consequence of Genl. Gregory's orders, I have received a
draft, to be made out of the Militia of this County, for the num-
ber of men called for. But through a multiplicity of difficulties
and inconveniencies which naturally arise upon these occasions
amongst the Militia, who are so unaccustomed to march into the
field of Mars, I have not been able to get them off so soon as I
could have washed for, but as I'm young in office I hope your
Excellency will pardon what he does not look upon as remission
in my duty. I hope you'l pardon the freedom I take in writiug
to your Excellency in this sort, as it shall always be without vio-
lating that respect due to your merit. The wagon employed to
attend this present draft of troops I have engaged to be discharged
at Kingston. The real difficulty I found attended getting a wagon
for the service reduced me to a necessity of engaging it on these
terms, therefore must beg your indulgence so far as to discharge
it on the arrival of the Troops. I am afraid I have already tres-
passed on your patience through prolixity, therefore shall conclude
with subscribing myself,

Your Excellency's mo. ob. servt.,

GEOKGE LITTLE.

P. S. There is a young Gentleman in Capt. Lewis Brown's
company by the name of Lewis Carter, of a creditable family,

STATE RECORDS.

which I take the freedom of recommending to your Excellency's
notice if a vacant Ensigncy or Lieutenancy offers.

I am, &c.j

G. L.
You'l please to excuse this imperfect hurried scrawl, being wrote
in the midst of a crowd.

I am, &c,

G. L.

LE CHEVALIER D'ANMOTJRS TO GOV. CASWELL.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Edenton, April 1st, 1780.
Sir:
I have the honor to subjoin to this the Credential Letter his
Excellency, the Chevelier de la Luzerne, sent me some time ago,
on account of my being appointed Consul of Erance to the state
under your Excellency's Government. I expected to have that
of delivering it myself in your hands, but am prevented from
doing it by some essential and unforseen affairs that immediately
require my presence in Virginia and Maryland, in which states I
also hold the same commission. I am excessively proud, Sir, of
being appointed in that quality to the State of North Carolina,
as I am perfectly well acquainted with the sincere regard my
Sovereign entertains for that Commonwealth. Nothing on my
side will be spared to maintain a solid union between its subjects
and those of the King my Master that do or will hereafter reside
in it. I leave to your Excellency, the honorable Council and the
Honorables the Houses of Assembly's choice how to authenticate
and make known the power that Commission gives me over his
most Christian Majesty's subjects i-esiding in this state. I beg
leave, however, to recommend the measures that were taken in
Virginia by an Act of its Assembly in its last Session, and the
proclamation of the Governor in consequence of it; tho' they are
but temporary and eventual ones, yet they will serve till a gen-
eral plan be settled between our Ministers and the Americans in
France. I also take the liberty of representing to the Legis-

STATE RECORDS.

lative and Executive powers that it is very essential to make
proper particular regulations for the encouragement of the French
trade in this state, the want of which, I perceive, has been ruin-
ous to that carried by France at the beginning of the present
"War; and of course disgusted the foreign merchants from send-
ing any more ships into the ports of North Carolina. There was
a time when they crowded into its harbors as much as circum-
stances arising from war could admit of it. Now there is scarcely
one, and (I say it with regret) there is very little prospect they
will ever venture upon any such expeditions till they see proper
steps taken to protect them in every manner, and particularly to
stop the desertion of their crews. It is too well known that,
specially in that point, their Masters could never obtain the least
redress ; nothing but an active and severe law upon that subject
can obviate to that inconveniency, the consequence of which must
be fatal to all foreign commerce, and to this state also. I will
still observe that it would be necessary that I should be at liberty
to appoint such agents in every port of the state in order to act
in my absence in fortuitous cases that admit of no delay, and
patronize the French Ships that might arrive in them. Those
agents whom I would choose, either amongst the American or
French Merchants, ought to be free from the Militia Law, or any
other service that may take them from the place of their resi-
dence. I believe New Bern, Eden ton, Bath, Beaufort, Bruns-
wick and Wilmington would be the proper places where they
ought to be appointed. I natter myself. Sir, that you will be so
good as to transmit this to the honorable the Council of the
State, and the honorable the house of Assembly, and also com-
municate to me their Resolutions on those important subjects, as
well as the act which will authenticate my Commission in North
Carolina, and your proclamation in consequence thereof.

I am, with the highest consideration and regard, Sir,
Your Excellency's mo. ob. & humbl. Servt.,

LE CHEVELIER D'ANMOURS,
Consul for his most Christian Majesty in the States of North

Carolina & Virginia and Maryland.
<Gov. Caswell.

P. S. Be pleased to direct your letters at Williamsburg, where

STATE RECORDS. 367

I shall leave orders to forward them to me, wherever I may be
when they arrive there.

DR. THOS. BURKE TO CORNELIUS HARNETT.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, Apr. 15, 1780.
Dear Sir :
I have had from you, very lately, a letter which announced to
me your safe arrival at your own home. I am very glad that you
have surmounted the difficulties of a journey which I have often
thought of with very great and severe apprehensions. Your
spirits, I perceive, are good, and- your health, I hope, will always
continue as well as you can wish it. Mine, I find, declines apace,
and I am satisfied that another year's close application in Congress
would make a perpetual citizen in Philadelphia, and give me a
right to the soil from whence nothing short of the Final
Judgment of the World could eject me. Gen. Jones and myself
continued at our old quarters until about ten days ago, and had
the pleasure of the company of our old agreeable friends, Mrs. and
Miss Yiney. But even their Society could not render our
situation any longer tolerable, and we changed our quarters to the
house formerly occupied by our friend, George Ross, which we
have taken ready furnished. We live there as comfortably as we
wish. I will not trouble you with a detail of the proceedings of
Congress, but will enclose yon papers which contain our New
Money Act, which, together with the call for specific supplies, the
Requisition for quotas of Troops, a Resolution for making good
the pay of the Army, and a resolution appointing a Committee of
three, Schuyler, Matthews and Peabody, to go to camp with
powers to adopt and carry into execution any plan respecting the
Quartermaster's and Commissary's Department, constitute all the
business of great consequence which has been completed. The
last appears to me to be a contrivance to prevent our making any
considerable alterations in those departments, and t<> give
consequence to a certain Individ, in whose personal qualities and
Individual Utility and importance Congress have found much
business and much alterations and embarassment.

STATE RECORDS.

PRESIDENT J. RUTLEDGE TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.
[From Executive Letter Book.]

Georgetown, April 25th, 1780.
Sir:
It appears to me a most essential object to restore as soon as
possible and to preserve the Communication between Charles-
town and this part of the Country by way of Haddrell's and
Lamprieres Point. I have therefore ordered Genl. Williamson,
who is here, as I am informed, about Orangeburg with -±50 men,
and Colonel Thompson, \tfio is also there, to cross Santee River
with the Troops under their command, (except 50 of Colonel
Thompson to remain at Orangeburg,) and march with the utmost
expedition on the North side of the River to Lenard's Ferry,
and I recommend it to you to do the same with the Troops
now in your ■ Camp, and to order those by whom you expect
to be joined to proceed after you as fast as possihle. I have sent
similar recommendations to Col. Hewes at Beaufort as to their
Troops and to Col. White respecting the horse. My wish is that
as soon as this force can all be assembled at Lenards they should
cross the River, for the purpose above mentioned, which I hope
and think they will effect. I shall order the Arms and Ammuni-
tion you want, and provisions for all the Troops above mentioned,
sent to Lenard's Ferry. By the time they can arrive there, I
mean that the Militia which are directed to Assemble at Wright's
Bluff should rendezvous there till a sufficient number can be col-
lected there to reinforce the Troops now ordered and recommended
to march to Lenards Ferry.

I am, Sir, your mo. ob. Servt.,

J. RUTLEDGE.

MAJ. W. R. DAVIE TO GOVERNOR CASWELL.

[Prom Executive Letter Book.]

Charlotte, August 29th, 1780.
Sir :
The Enemy's falling immediately back to Camden and mak-
ing no further advantage of their victory laid me under no neces-

STATE RECORDS.

sity of retreating further than this. I kept out small parties of
Horse to cover the Country and furnish us with regular Intelli-
gence. The number of the Militia in Camp have been so fluctu-
ating that nothing could be done. Last Saturday, with some diffi-
culty, a command of one hundred horse was made up. I proceeded
with them down the Country as far as three miles below the Hang-
ing Rock.

The Tory Militia have returned to their Plantations, but none
of them appeared ; they have robbed a few houses, and take
every opportunity of expressing their designs of plundering the
Country aud murdering the Whiggest Inhabitants.

The North Carolina Militia are now reduced to 300 in Cam-
den, and those are detained by the Enemy's solemnly engaging to
march into this State between the first and tenth of next month.

The arrangements the Enemy are making in Camden indicate
a disposition of this kind. They are industriously mounting
their Infantry on the captured horses, refreshing and showing
the Cavalry of the Legion & Getting Baiyels made to carry
provisions. This looks like a Bush-Country Trip. Have sent
off some of their Baggage to Charlestown, Convinced, I sup-
pose, of the uncertainty of human affairs. Lust Monday, Tues-
day and "Wednesday marched off the Prisoners to Garrison.

It is said one party were released by the Militia near Sump-
ter. Two, wild left Camden on Sunday, told me it was publicly
spoken of there as a fact. Last Friday they called in their best
post from Rugely's. Colo. Turnbull has also discharged his
militia on the other side the Catawba and marched with the Regu-
lar Troops into Camden.

All the recruits raised in the District of Ninety-six and other
parts of So. Carolina were furloughed till the 6th or 7th of the
next month, when thev are to rendezvous at Camden. Our old
friend, Mr. B. !!. Boot, is Commissary of Prisoners, and Mr. Kerr,
who left Salisbury with his assistance.

They talk of reinforcements from Town, but God knows whether
they are serious or not.

The Militia in camp are quite inconsiderable, frightened, too. and

irresolute, one day in Camp, another day to secure their property,

so that one-half will undoubtedly vanish upon the appearance of

the Enemy. The Counties of Rowan and Mecklenburg are rich

15—24

370 STATE RECORDS.

in provisions and strong in men, staunch, numerous and spirited,
if they were only encouraged to take the field by timely assistance.
These are the facts, as near as I can collect them, respecting the
Enemy's conduct and the situation of this distressed Country. A
small body ot Regulars, with a few Militia, and these Counties
would still keep the Enemy at Bay. Our poor wounded in Cam-
den are in a most wretched situation. Colo. Wilcox told me
Genl. Rutherford had no surgeon but himself, and that many of
them had never been_ dressed. Something should be done for
them ; 'tis cruel. Capt. Macneal of Hamilton's Regiment, who came
up with Colo. Quleyson, till he met with our party, mentioned the
Legion's returning last Thursday from capturing some provision
wagons on their way to Nelson's Ferry.
I am, Sir, with great respect,

Your humbl. Servt.,

WILLIAM R. DAVIE.

GOV. THOMAS JEFFERSON TO HON. THOMAS BURKE.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Richmond, Oct. 2nd, 17S0.
Sir :
I am sorry to be obliged to inform you that it is out of our power
to have payment made of Mr. Clay's draught for $225,000. Our
Treasury is at present absolutely exhausted, and no prospect of
its being replenished till the Assembly shall have met and have
had time to provide supplies. I hope this will reach you in time
to prevent the additional disappointment which might arise from
your setting out on your journey previous to your receipt of this.
I have the honor to be,

With the greatest esteem and respect, Sir,

Your most ob. and Humble Servt.,

THOMAS JEFFERSON.

STATE RECORDS. 371

GOV. THOS. JEFFERSON TO HON. THOS. BURKE.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Richmond, October 15th, 1780.
Sir:

Your favour of the 5th, covering a draught of Mr. Clay's for
$106,775, came safely to hand last night. I am sorry that Mr.
Clay adopted this method of negotiating money claims on our
Treasury, which is not, and [ fear will not again be, in acondition
to answer his draughts with any kind of punctuality which might
justify his drawing and negotiating in the mercantile way. In
my letter to you of the 2nd Inst., acknowledging the receipt of
the draught for 225,000 D., I informed you of the exhausted state
of our treasury. There is yet no symptom of replenishment. I
really, therefore, do not know what to recommend to yon. If you
find it better to retain those bills on us, we expect to pay money
to or for Mr. Clay, and shall with great cheerfulness do it through
you ; but I am bound at the same time to inform yon that we
are so far from being in arrears on the general requisitions of
Congress for Money (in which case depreciation might perhaps be
chargeable to us) that we have overpaid their requisitions till the
close of the present year upwards of six millions of dollars. Mr.
Clay's draught from Congress is supererogation. Yet we do not
mean to couut or weigh our contributions by any standard but
that of our abilities.

If you find you can better secure yourself against deprecia-
tion by recalling these draughts, they will be delivered to your
order, and in the meantime safely kept.
I am, with great esteem, Sir,

Your most Obedt. Humble Servt.,

THOS. JEFFERSON.

STATE RECORDS.

COL. CAMPBELL'S GENERAL ORDER ON RETURN FROM KING'S
MOUNTAIN.

Camp at Bethabaea, October 26th, 1780.

Parole Henry.

Col. Cleveland to take command of the guards now here, and
of those who may come to camp till I return, and in the mean-
time to issue such orders as may be necessary. Should I by letter
direct the prisoners and troops to move from here, they are to do
it and go to such place as I shall so direct. The officers and sol-
diers are to lodge in camp, and to be and remain there from eight
O'clock at night until next morning after guard-mounting, under
pain of arrest or confinement. The officers ordered on guard to
attend strictly to their duty until they are relieved. The Com-
missary to issue full rations to the prisoners. The regular officers
to continue at the place until I return, unless I shall direct them
to be removed with the other prisoners. It is hoped no insult or
violence unmerited will be offered to them. My wish is that no
unnecessary injury be done to the inhabitants of this place or the
adjacent country. No liquor to be sold or issued to the troops
without an order from the commanding officer for the time being.
This order respects all retailers of spirituous liquors in or near
camp, of which they are to be made acquainted.

DIARY OF MEMORziNDUMS.

[From a small book kept by Ensign Robert Campbell.]
At the Battle of King's Mountain the Americans had thirty
killed and about sixty wounded, the British two hundred and
twenty-five killed and something less than that number wounded.
Col. David Campbell, of Campbell's Station, was in Dysart's
company at the battle of King's Mountain. Col. Robert Camp-
bell was the Ensign in the same company.

In the expedition to King's Mountain Col. Campbell, Col.
Shelby and Col. Sevier rendezvoused in the Sycamore Flats on
Watauga at the foot of Yellow Mountain on the 25th of Sep-
tember, 1780. Next day, the 26th, they ascended this mountain,

STATE RECORDS. 373

mostly on horseback, and encamped at night in the gap on the
opposite side. The ascent over this part of the mountain was
not very difficult. There was a road, but not one on which
wagons could pass. No provisions were taken but such as each
man could carry in his wallet or saddle-bags. The sides and top
of the mountain were covered with snow, shoe-mouth deep. On
the top of the mountain there was about one hundred acres of
beautiful table land, in which a spring issued, ran through it and
over into the Watauga. Here the troops paraded. On reaching
the plane beyond the mountain they found themselves in a coun-
try covered with verdure, and breathed an atmosphere of summer
mildness. The second night, the night of the 27th, they rested
at Cathey's plantation. The third day, the 28th, they fell in with
Genl. McDowell, and that night held a consultation of the officers.
The General was without troops, yet his rank and former services
could not be easily overlooked. It was stated in the counsel that
they needed an experienced officer to command them. Morgan
was the man they wanted, and to obviate all difficulties Genl.
McDowell offered to be the bearer of their wishes to Genl. Gates.
The fourth night, the 29th, they rested at a rich Tory's, where
they obtained abundance of every necessary refreshment. On the
fifth day, the 30th, they reached the Catawba and were joined by
Cleveland. Here they dispatched Gen. McDowell to Gen.
Gates.

On passing near the Cowpens they heard of a large body of
Tories about eight miles distant, and although the main enterprise
was not to be delayed a single moment, a party of eight}' volun-
teers, under Ensign Robert Campbell, was dispatched in pursuit
of them during the night. They had, however, removed before
the party came to the place, who, after riding all night, came up
with the main body next day. On the next night a similar expe-
dition was conducted by Captain Colvill with no better success,
but without causing any delay.

The battle was fought on Saturday, the 7th day of October,
17S0. On the next Saturday a court-martial was held for the
trial of the Tories. . This is represented in history to have taken
place immediately, but it was the eighth day after the battle.

374 STATE EECOEDS.

BENJAMIN HAWKINS, ESQ., TO HON. THOMAS BURKE.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Newbern, Nov. 6th, 17S0.
Dear Sir :

In my letter of the 20th Ult., I wrote you, that in consequence
of a letter reed, from Mr. Johnston, I sent the horses to Virginia,
and directed the money to be paid to his order, and that I should
come to this place and endeavour to procure a supply for you.

Two days past I sent Mr. Johnston 27,573 dollars, and have
procured for you sixty one thousand and sixty three, as also a bill
of Mr. Pollock on Virginia, for twenty five thousand dollars,
which, he says, yon would take. Mr. Pollock is so obliging as to
carry you the money and bill, which, I hope, will come safe to
hand. Part of the money is in Loan certificates, which, I suppose,
you must part with on a Discount. The difficulty I have
experienced in procuring this has been very great, tho' as the
Northern Speculators begin to move Southerly, it is probable I
may get the Eemainder, which I will send up to you immediately.

If you can dispose of one or two hundred bushels of good Alum
Salt, to be delivered at Wilmington, I pray you do it, and draw
on me. We have one thousand bushels there. You will pardon
me for troubling you in this matter. I wish I knew what
assurance Mr. Bignall gave the Assembly when they drew on us
to supply you. His present indisposition prevents his coming to
see me. I shall be glad to hear from you. I have a few light
articles for Mrs. Eutledge, which the Governor desired me to
send to yon witli his Letter, begging your attention. The want of
an opportunity prevents my sending them.

I am, with due respect, Dear Sir, Your Humble Servt.,

BENJAMIN HAWKINS.

It is reported that Count DeEstaing is arrived in Martinique
with twenty two sail of the Line and twenty five thousand Troops.
A privateer arrived here yesterday who saw several very large
ships at anchor off Charleston Bar, firing signal guns. He took a
man from the town who said they wrere supposed to be French and
Spanish. He said that Cornwallis arrived in town Saturday week,
without his army.

STATE EECORDS. 375

HON. THOS. BURKE TO HON. JOHN ADAMS.

[From Executive Letter Book.]

Philadelphia, Dec. 20th, 1780.
Dear Sir :
Presuming on our former acquaintance, while we served together
in Congress, I take the liberty of introducing to you Mr. John
Benegette, of this City, who proposes to visit you at Amsterdam.
I hope you will find him, what he is esteemed here, and I believe
him to be, an honest, sensible, intelligent gentleman and most
unequivocally attached to his Country. I shall not solicit for him
your attention and regard. I know lie will deserve them, and I
know you too well to doubt in that case his obtaining them.
Having lately left the scene where our officers labor under the
greatest difficulties, I mean the Southern department, it will
probably not be disagreeable to you to know my sentiments rela-
tive to tbem. Some events, it is true, were unfortunate, but, to
me, they seemed rather the result of misconduct, and a precipita-
tion that contemned all precaution, than of weakness. Nothing-
can be a stronger proof of that determined, unconquerable Spirit
which animates all America than what appeared in the State of
North Carolina immediately on the defeat of Gen. Gates near
Camden. The rout of his Army was as complete as can be
imagined. The utter loss of tents, wagons and every Camp
necessary made it impossible for his Troops to keep the field ;
want of Magazines, which, through some defect in the Staff
department, had been neglected, rendered it almost impossible to
collect the scattered soldiers. Appearances could not be more
desperate. Even the General gave up all hopes of defending the
Country, and thought of nothing but the safety of the remains of
his Regular Army. But under all those circumstances the Peo-
ple, then laboring under all the distresses inseparable from an
unprovided Soldiery, flew to arms wiih the greatest alacrity,
resolving that the Enemy should not find their Country an easy
prey, if even they should not be able finally to withstand them.
They had the success that such spirit in a people will always com-
mand. They obtained a most complete Victory over one of the

376 STATE RECORDS.

principal divisions of the British Army, with numbers much
inferior to those they conquered. They harrassed the other divis-
ion with incessant skirmishes, until they obliged them to retreat
a considerable distance into South Carolina. The war may
impoverish and distress us, we may be many times unsuccessful,
our Armies may be dispersed, our finances deranged, but a people
pervaded by such a spirit as animates all America never can be